Considerations for remote and flexible work policies

Many organizations are pivoting to an online or hybrid work environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To adapt, some organizations are developing policies on remote work and flexible schedules.

When developing policies related to remote work, consider impacts on:

• Access to vaccine for those unable to work remotely
• Accessibility of faculty and staff to students
• Connectivity and IT support
• Employee wellness and staying emotionally connected virtually
• Equipment purchasing and lending for remote work
• Equity of individuals allowed to work remotely (front desk staff, senior leadership, etc.)
• Facility and space usage and planning
• Information and records security and privacy
• Performance, conduct and time management
• Workers compensation coverage
• Working out-of-state or out-of-country (tax implications and privacy laws)

Resources

The following articles, while not specifically about higher education, provide useful policy guidelines for our organizations:

• https://www.fedscoop.com/agency-leaders-anticipate-post-pandemic-hybrid-work-environment/
• https://www.density.io/blog/returning-to-workplace-after-covid-19

For Future Thought

• How has your organization responded to the need for policies on remote work and flexible schedules?
• What should other organizations consider when developing remote work policies and procedures?
• How has your experience been working remotely or on-campus during the pandemic?