As part of ATP’s commitment to reducing traffic congestion and encouraging the use of alternative transportation modes, we promote a variety of programs and strategies such as tax-free transit benefits, brochure services, bike commuter facilities, and many others. However, did you know that there are additional commuter benefit policies that have nearly no cost and require less time to implement and manage than other programs? For both small and larger companies, alternative work schedules are a great option that can help alleviate traffic in the area as well as improve productivity and employee satisfaction.
There are a several alternative work schedules that employers can offer, all of which could have an immediate impact on employee morale and the company's overall bottom line. Flextime allows employees to arrive or leave work at different times, giving more flexibility for appointments and responsibilities outside of the workplace. A compressed work week gives employees the option of working either four ten hour days with the fifth day off, or working 80 hours in nine days, with the tenth day off. Staggered work hours shift employees’ schedules from the normal starting time by 15 minutes or up to 2 hours, so they can avoid rush hour crowds or traffic. Finally, telework can help workers avoid commuting altogether. By allowing employees to work outside the office, on either an informal or formal basis, work output can increase and will also help reduce the stress caused by daily commutes to the office.
These strategies, while not suitable for all employers, are easy to apply to company policies and can have immediate impacts on productivity, satisfaction, and employee retention. To read about more of the benefits to alternative work schedules, ATP has a comprehensive webpage with additional information, as well as what we can do to help your company get started on implementing these programs. Feel free to contact ATP with questions or to learn more about what your company can do to make commuting easier for your employees!
