Flextime

Like compressed workweeks, commuters who use flextime generally avoid peak commute times and have the flexibility they need to meet personal and family obligations--so employers generally see a reduction in tardiness and absenteeism as well as many other benefits.

Short for "flexible work hours," flextime refers to a work schedule that permits employees to choose their starting and stopping times within limits set by management. Key elements are core hours (time when everyone must be present) and flexible starts and stops (times when employees have choice in when they work). Some organizations permit flexible lunch periods as well as flexible stops and starts.

Standard workday

7am	8	9	10	11	12	1	2	3	4	5	6	7pm
	Work					Work

Flextime workday

7am	8	9	10	11	12	1	2	3	4	5	6	7pm
Flexible Start			Core Hours		Flexible Lunch		Core Hours		Flexible Stop

 

Note: This information is based on “The Manager’s Guide to Compressed Workweeks and Flextime,” published in 1998 by Washington State University Cooperative Extension Energy Program in collaboration with Commuter Challenge and with additional support provided by Washington State Department of Transportation.

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