The Challenges of Remote Coding

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Technological and connectivity issues at home seemed to be the main problem for those who experienced decreases in productivity, according to the coder productivity survey (83% blamed slow Internet connections; 66% blamed other connectivity issues). Other problems included lack of coworker interaction (38%), lack of self-discipline or motivation, and home interferences or distractions (24% each). Those are substantial percentages to which managers need to be attentive, said Dunn. For example, take into account staff members' work habits and experience. "They certainly will have a loss of social networking. And they'll also have a lack of access to resources, such as senior coders, who have tremendous experience and pearls of wisdom to share with junior coders," Dunn pointed out. "And when they don't have those resources available, not only will their productivity suffer, but their quality may suffer as well." She advised against sending new coders home until they routinely achieve productivity and quality expectations—and not until you are certain that their work habits are compatible with a remote environment. St. Anthony's experienced a few challenges when starting its program. Beezley found that monitoring coders online, in real-time, was critical to success. "We have a system that allows for that, so we can go in and see that a coder is actually working real-time online," she said. She also found that conducting surprise home visits was helpful. "We found they were actually working at home. We were thrilled with that," she said. Beezley noted that regular, timely e-mail and telephone contact can be a challenge. "You're calling and e-mailing a tremendous amount," she said, but maintaining such contact is absolutely necessary. Beezley also stressed the importance of reminding coders that working remotely is a benefit, not a right. HIM directors

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