"The notion of distance will disappear altogether as always-on access to the Net (broadband) becomes ubiquitous" (New Scientist, 21 October 2001). Will it? We don't think so.

The technological revolution has increased transparency and competition in markets and it has also driven and facilitated flexibility in working practices, and this is set to continue.

The workplace is, for many, a source of social interaction that they would miss if they worked purely from home

Sue Tibballs

The concept of a fixed place of work will become increasingly redundant as workers hot-desk, work on the move, and work from other sites or from home. This will have an impact upon the travelling habits of many people.

With fewer people working 9 to 5, a shift toward off-peak travel could help alleviate the rush hour throng.

Jam today, home-working tomorrow?

Of course, it is not just home-working that will have an impact - with improved, cost effective communications, organisations can have different sites in perhaps less central and therefore less congested areas.

In terms of environmental impact... consumer attitudes are somewhat contradictory

Sue Tibballs

This does, however, need to be put into context. Only 15% of people currently want to spend more time working at home. As not all of these people are able to do so, the impact might not be as significant as many people suggest.

The workplace is, for many, a source of social interaction that they would miss if they worked purely from home. It is much more likely that people will balance their time at home and in the office.

'Low-status' public transport

At the same time, increasing affluence and an enduring low-status association with public transport means that for most, private transport is their preferred choice. Growth in road travel will continue unless real incentives to encourage the use of public transport are introduced.

In terms of environmental impact and the role of government, consumer attitudes are somewhat contradictory.

The overwhelming majority say they think the government should introduce laws to make companies protect the environment. However, consumers also say they do not want to pay road tolls or higher taxes, or give up the convenience of private travel.

It seems that the answer does not lie with one solution, but when asked which measures would be most likely to encourage people to use public transport more, improvements in the public transport infrastructure heads the list.

Sue Tibballs is Projects Director at the Future Foundation and carried out research for Transport for London.