Smarter working helps all

Jan 31 2007 By Ross Smith, The Journal

A computing firm yesterday said technology can help end the North-East's nine to five culture as it became the latest firm to sign up to a flexible working campaign.

Internet and IT specialists Onyx Group has joined Work Wise North-East, which backs innovations such as working from home and remote working.

Onyx, which employs 50 people and has a turnover of £7m, has pledged to bring its knowledge and expertise to the initiative.

Work Wise, which is supported by The Journal, has already secured the backing of a string of business organisations, public sector bodies and the TUC.

Onyx Group Sales and Marketing Director Neil Stephenson said: "Onyx is delighted to have the opportunity to provide both financial and hands-on support to this important initiative.

"As a leading technology group, we are already providing secure and resilient solutions to businesses that are looking to enjoy the financial, operational and social benefits of dispersed working.

"As a region, we need to fully embrace the technologies that are currently emerging, if we are to enjoy the benefits of increased productivity through flexible working.

"Work Wise is about better business, improved productivity and achieving a work-life balance, and we see tremendous benefits for our customers by adopting these smarter working practices. Onyx hopes that it can take a proactive lead in the bid to help many more businesses of all sizes to take up the Work Wise mantle."

Leaders of Work Wise claim it will make workers' lives happier, increase company success and both ease congestion and help the environment by putting an end to the traditional rush hour.

Phil Flaxton, chief executive of the national Work Wise campaign, said: "A cultural shift in changing working patterns is gaining momentum around the country as more and more organisations, such as the Onyx Group, realise the benefits of smarter working.

"Changing working practices is the obvious answer to current issues such as quality of life and work-life balance, the problems of congestion, of the environmental impact of travel and productivity and competitiveness. Work Wise is a way for businesses to take a lead in demonstrating what should be done to address the needs of 21st century business."