A new homeworking venture is being launched by Dell in collaboration with a US college that will train technicians to provide support for consumer and corporate computing systems.

Up to 150 individuals employed by the computer giant will work from home after being trained by the College of Southern Idaho (CSI).

According to CSI president Jerry Beck, the homeworkers' training will be ongoing but its frequency will depend on how often Dell updates its software and hardware.

Commenting on the work-from-home initiative to Times-News, he said: "This is something new for Dell and us. But I think it's something that we're both excited about."

The homeworking development follows last month's announcement by Dell that it plans to close a customer support call centre in the area by January. While the move means 500 people will lose their jobs, the work-at-home project means up to 150 will be offered alternative positions.

Earlier this month, news emerged of another firm's development of a "home agent programme" across 29 US states and six Canadian provinces, the success of which prompted it to extend operations to the UK.

Relationship management expert Convergys called for UK clients to support the homeworking rollout.