I just read an interesting article from FastCompany.com about how important flexibility is with the global economy:
Work/Life: Bye, Bye “8-to-6,” Flexibility to Find a “Fit” Across Time Zones
The philosophy that I have developed with Blackbird e-Solutions takes this idea one step further, Location flexibility. As with many Tech Companies as well as Localization firms, employees are scattered around the globe. With modern day communication such as email, instant messaging, VOIP (voice over IP), and other online collaboration tools, people can work on a project together whether they are in the same building, town, country or even on the side of the world, and not notice a difference. The idea of location flexibility or location independence adds portability to the mix. Say a linguist that has been working on a software localization project lives in Iowa, USA. If they have a laptop and a VOIP phone, what’s stopping them from going to Italy for the winter? By taking advantage of the portability of today’s communication tools, you can essentially live and work anywhere that has an internet connection. You want to spend a extended time in Tuscany. Great! You don’t have to quit your job. In fact as a Localization Consultant it is beneficial and encouraged to experience living in different markets and cultures. Winter is coming, so grab your laptop and passport…lets go someplace tropical!
