Labour and the information society: trades union policies for teleworking

Abstract

The current interest in teleworking is seen as the focal point of a wider debate relating to the diffusion of flexible work patterns facilitated by the networking of information communication technology and the development of the Information Society. The development of telework as a means of organising work is mapped and the trades union response outlined. An historical perspective to trades unions attitudes is provided by comparison with the Micro Electronics Revolution debate of the late 1970s and early 1980s, which focused on new technology agreements. The paper concludes by promoting a legislative framework to ensure best employment practices, and by urging trades unions to develop policies that meet both the challenges and opportunities of the Information Society.