The pros and cons of telecommuting have probably been debated ever since the word “telecommute” was introduced in Webster’s dictionary about 38 years ago (Hartford Business.com). But a new, scientifically relevant study by Stanford researchers and one of China’s largest travel-agents has shed some light on the performance, productivity, and financial impacts telecommuting can have on an organization.

The study, which has not been peer reviewed, focused on call-center employees. You can download a copy of the study presentation (PDF).

The presentation highlights the researchers’ findings that the telecommuters (treatment group) performance was significantly higher than the non-telecommuters (control group). This includes more calls taken, more hours worked, and less attrition.

You can read more detailed summaries of the study at Slate and Smithsonian.com. Thanks to lifehacker for the original heads up on this study.

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