For Sun Microsystems, Open Work is Working

I came across this video the other day while I was looking for some statistics on the benefits and cost savings of virtual teams. It’s about Sun Microsystems 10-year old Open Work program. Started in 1998, this work from anywhere initiative has made them more flexible, increased productivity, and saved money.

In this video you’ll hear from Dave Douglas, vice president of eco-responsibility and Sun’s “Chief Green Evangelist”, and find out how the project operates and why it’s been a success.

You also get an interesting peak into what one of their “drop-in” locations is like and how employees use a special Java ID card to log onto any system to access their work and be productive.

Sun does virtual right! More than half of their employees do not have an assigned office space in a fixed location. Employees are allowed to work wherever and whenever it suits them. Some emplyee spend an average of 3-4 days a week outside the office, working from home or even a coffee shop, but are still able to stay connected and productive.

Not only does Open Work provide employees with flexibility in where and how they work but the financial and environmental impact has been tremendous. In 2007 they saved 68 million in real estate and energy costs and cut carbon emissions by 29,000 tons.

In this age of high gas prices and global warming, it’s refreshing and eye-opening to see a company like Sun that really “gets” how effective virtual teamwork and telecommuting can be.