As more and more organizations adopt virtual work practices, the terms telework and remote work are often used interchangeably. However, it is important to understand the subtle differences between the two, as well as the rules and regulations set forth by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for each.

What is Telework?

Telework, also known as telecommuting, is an arrangement in which a federal employee works from an approved alternative worksite. The alternative worksite can be an employee's home or somewhere else other than the office. Telework is not a new concept and has been used by the federal government since the early 2000s.

Under the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010, the OPM has established a telework program for federal employees that requires agencies to consider the use of telework and to provide opportunities for employees to participate in the program. The OPM encourages the use of telework to reduce costs, improve recruitment and retention of employees, and create a more productive and efficient workforce.

What is Remote Work?

Remote work is an arrangement in which an employee works from any location other than the office. Unlike telework, remote work is not limited to an employee's home or approved alternative worksite. Remote work is becoming increasingly popular among federal agencies and organizations, as it has been shown to increase productivity, reduce costs, and provide employees with more flexibility.

The OPM does not have specific regulations or policies for remote work, but does encourage federal agencies to consider the use of remote work to improve recruitment and retention of employees, reduce costs, and improve productivity.

OPM Policies for Telework and Remote Work

The OPM has established a number of policies and regulations for telework and remote work that federal agencies must adhere to. For example, the OPM requires that agencies have a Telework and Remote Work Plan in place and that the plan be reviewed and revised annually. The plan must include a list of eligible and ineligible employees, terms of participation, and a description of the procedures for requesting, approving, and monitoring telework and remote work.

The OPM also requires that agencies provide their employees with training on the use of telework and remote work. The training must include topics such as safety and security, telework and remote work guidelines, and the expectations of the agency and the employee.

Conclusion

The OPM encourages the use of telework and remote work for federal agencies, but has established a number of policies and regulations that must be followed. These policies and regulations are designed to ensure the safety and security of federal employees, as well as to ensure that the use of telework and remote work is beneficial to the agency and the employee.