Think through these things before you implement a flexible work policy.

1. Have a strategy. Which departments and individuals can successfully work remotely or on different schedules? What kind of flex work will you offer, and who has the final say? What metrics will you use to measure productivity for those on a flex work schedule? Make sure everyone is aware of the rules.
2. Test the program. Try it out on a test group before you adopt it. Assess the program at regular intervals. What works? What doesn’t work? Adjust as needed.
3. Train all of your managers. Help your managers do the right thing, apply the rules equally, and know at what point they have to escalate requests to HR. Maintain contact with your flex work staff.
4. Have the infrastructure in place. Time tracking software for non-exempt staff. Encryption for sensitive data, and protocols and company policies that speak to accessing and disseminating that data. Metrics for tracking productivity. A go-to person who can field flex work questions or concerns.

Source: Seattle Chapter SDA business practice dinner. Presenter Aaron D. Goldstein, Associate at Dorsey & Whitney, LLP; 10/15/15