A model for telecommuting in Kenya

Abstract

Given the emerging technologies and the need for employers to be more flexible about where and how people work, telecommuting would seem one logical and promising solution. However, telecommuting does not seem to thrive in Kenya. This study explores the feasibility of telecommuting in Kenya, examining the factors contributing to its low prevalence and the possible benefits that can be derived from its implementation. The study further develops a model on the process of implementing and running a successful telecommuting program in a typical organization. The study used a cross-sectional survey design in which standardized information was collected froma randomly selected sample of people through written/self-administered questionnaires and indepth data was collected through personal interviews with carefully selected sample of people and document reviews. This study established that there are very few elaborate telecommuting programs being used within organizations in Kenya. Even though some organizations, especially multinationals, have the capacity to implement telecommuting, many only go as far as offering flexible work programs. The study examined the factors impeding uptake of telecommuting and the plethora of ongoing initiatives that are making telecommuting a possibility today. The study puts together a telecommuting model that outlines the set of strategies, methods, technologies and organizational changes necessary for successful implementation of telecommuting. Collection of statistical data on telecommuting and evaluation of the results requires several years in order to study the before- and after-effects of telecommuting on various aspects of a worker's life. Due to resource constraints, the proposed telecommuting model has not been tested in a real life situation. This is an opportunity for further research that could provide empirical results of a real telecommuting program. This study provides a well of knowledge on Telecommuting that will go a long way in helping Kenya to take advantage of the enabling capacity of information and communications technologies and applications in her drive for comprehensive development.