The concept of telework, or working at a location other than theusual office, is receiving increasing attention. Telework is steadily becoming of more benefit as computers and telecommunications services continue rapid innovation and gain popularity. There are a number of important reasons to explore telework in canada's capital region. The practice of telework is advancing despite the absence of guiding policy for federal employees and departments. Requirements for more flexible work environments and arrangements are increasing. Costs of office space in downtown ottawa and hull continue to increase.Computers and communications equipment are more affordable. Trafficcongestion is growing, which slows travel and results in additionalcosts to the user and to the regional economy. The manner in which the national capital commission is dealing with telework as a planning issue is reported. A 1988 survey of the attitudes of senior federal managers toward telework in canada's capital region is described.The public policy environments for telework are examined, several transportation and planning issues interacting with telework are identified, and opportunities for improved understanding and applicationof telework toward the futur of canada's capital are suggested. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1285, Transportation forecasting 1990.
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