My doctoral dissertation research examines how the technology use and communication patterns associated with distributed work influence job outcomes such as individual performance, satisfaction and organizational commitment. Distributed work influences more than how and when we communicate. It also influences the strength and content of relationships that we create and maintain in order to facilitate the accomplishment of our jobs. The value and resources contained in these relationships, often referred to as social capital, is also considered in this study. Distributed work is expected to influence the strength of relationships, the transfer of knowledge, shared vision, and trust that we rely upon in the performance of our job duties. With a better understanding of how technology use, communication patterns, and social capital influence the outcomes of distributed work, it is the goal of this research to create actionable knowledge that firms can use to improve individual, group, and firm performance in distributed settings.

Continuing to build on my practical experience and doctoral research stream, I am also working with the Telework Consortium, a non-profit, federally funded research group. Together we are investigating the use of collaborative technologies, in particular multi-function personal video-based tools, in distributed work environments. Current pilots hold great promise for enhancing knowledge about the impact of and best practices as to how distributed work can improve flexibility and stimulate innovation. Preliminary findings from these studies are included in the Congressional Record for the House Committee on Government Reform, Hearing on Telework Programs and Policies, held in August 2004.

My doctoral research has also been presented at the Loudoun Economic Summit, in Herndon, Virginia, October 2004 and discussed at the Big Ten IS Research Symposium in East Lansing, Michigan in April 2004.