UK IT departments must become more flexible if British companies are to meet the demands of the 21st century business environment, one expert has made clear.

Some of the world’s biggest multinational companies have backed the practice of allowing staff to work from home as a way of improving productivity, according to reports.

A new survey suggests home-based workers in the UK should take steps to ensure the security of their computers to avoid becoming the "weak link" in their corporate network.

A web-development and internet consultancy firm based in West Yorkshire has outlined some of the benefits its business has benefited from implementing more flexible working policies, including enabling staff members to operate from home.

A UK-based training solutions firm has highlighted some of the potential benefits of ensuring home-based workers have the skills they may need to keep their computer systems functioning properly.

Britain is lacking in opportunities to operate from home and to work more flexible hours, according to one entrepreneur aiming to change the situation.

Work Wise UK, the campaign aimed at changing the way employees operate around the country, has received the backing of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

A new programme offering business lessons to mothers looking to set up their own company and operate from home has been launched in the UK, it has emerged.

The stress brought on by a long working week and a lengthy daily commute is a significant cause of ill health in the UK but can be tackled in part by increasing employee flexibility, it has been claimed.

Giving staff a right to demand flexible working arrangements, such as operating from home, would be good for business, according to around one-third of those polled in a recent study.