How easy is it to set up a workspace/ home office?
From a health care stand point, due to patient privacy - we have to be very vigilant in making sure all information are indeed secured. First, we have to determine the bandwidth of their internet connection, duo authentication to make sure the connection with Stanford is secured and the necessary proprietary software is loaded on their computer if not working from a company owned computer.

What technology / equipment do you need?
Proprietary software, Duo Authentication, softphone, headset

Do you feel people working from home work harder, about the same or less than those working in an office environment
About the same - depends on their home life

What advice would you give anyone working from home for the first time and how to adapt?
Make sure they have a separate area to work, away from the the rest of the family. Set straight rules to not be disturbed while working and make sure they maintain the same regiment as they would at work

Does working from home affect your quality of life? (i.e. less travel time etc = more leisure time)
I don't think so

How does working from home affect your home life? (for example if you have children, partner etc)
Everyone at home have to realize that you are work, even though physically you are at home

Do you feel like a proper employee? i.e. you are at work when working from home?
Yes

When you work in an office and you leave you disconnect from work - literally. If you work at home how easy is it to dis-connect from work?
Hard but can be done

How do you stay motivated when working from home?
This depends on the supervisor that's managing the process and continuous encouragements works well

How often does your company check in with you?
Consistantly - but at different times unannounced.

What would you say is the best part of working from home?
Don't have to wear a tie

What would you say is the worst part of working from home?
Distractions

Do you feel safer (e.g. don't travel, won't catch viruses from colleagues etc) working from home?
Yes

Do you prefer working from home? Yes/No? Explain why
No - work is work, home should be about family. However, sometimes - life dictated something differently and we have to adapt

How do you measure productivity of home based agents and also availability?
Should be the same as thought they are in the office

How do you keep in touch with staff during the day?
Jabber or other instant messaging along with screen capture and call monitoring - real time