Date of Award
2000
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Industrial Communications
Department
Business
First Advisor
Michael Castro
Second Advisor
Michael Kramer
Third Advisor
Robert Williams
Abstract
This culminating project focuses on the transition of work teams from a traditional to a virtual work setting and the approaches and tools used by the manager to make that transition effective.
"Virtual Workplace", Telecommuting, Telework, "Alternative Workplace", and "Work From Home" are all terms and phrases used to describe a situation where at least a portion of a work team's members are not housed in a specific office day in and day out. This type of work setting has been utilized for many years (e.g. the traveling salesman) but is gaining popularity with the advent of enhanced communication tools and computers. These technology advances have allowed for more jobs to be effectively performed remotely.
The transition from the traditional, co-located setting to virtual is difficult for many employees and managers. This is especially true for those that have grown accustomed to the traditional setting and the means of communication and procedures for management typically associated with it. The change will likely require them to adjust some of their thoughts and beliefs about work in order for them to adapt.
This study investigates the issues of managerial leadership, communications, and technology simultaneously as they apply to people transitioning to the new virtual workplace. It evaluates work in all of these relevant areas and, from it, devises practical guidelines for managers to use to better understand the new environment, and to effectively transition their teams into the virtual work place.
This study found that the transition involves learning on the part of the manager as well as the employees. This learning leads to increased "virtual maturity", consisting of technical skills and positive personal attitude, in both the team members and leaders. The transition to virtual can be beneficial to all involved, and the technology exists today to facilitate the change. Moving gradually, analyzing the situation and communicating the issues will ensure the best chance for success.
Recommended Citation
Reighard, Mark K., "Leadership and Communication in the Transition to Virtual" (2000). Theses. 1188.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1188
Creative Commons License
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