The Evolution of Telework in the Federal Government

The history of Federal telework reflects the evolution of one of the most significant and progressive changes in work conditions for Federal employees. Beginning during the last decade of the 20th century, the Federal telework movement reflected that period’s interest in workforce impact on family, environment, and general quality of life. It was also one of the most important barometers of the transition from industrial age to information age human resources and workplace management. It is a classic study of the struggle for change in a 20th century bureaucracy. Interestingly enough, it also shows how the efforts of a relatively few resulted in a potential impact on the worklives of 1.8 million Federal workers.