askHRWorkplace Strategies
Northwestern recognizes that the implementation of workplace strategies supports a variety of goals related to staff engagement and well-being and recruitment and retention.
Policy on Workplace Strategies
The policy on workplace strategies establishes a common, ongoing framework and definitions, with which school and unit leadership can implement various workplace strategies—including but not limited to remote work—in accordance with their operational needs. Please see the policy for the range of workplace strategies. To maintain the vibrancy that characterizes our campuses, the University expects that most employees will continue to work on designated campus locations for a majority (3 days) of their work week.
Download the Policy on Workplace Strategies
- The Policy on Workplace Strategies replaces the previous Policy on Alternative Work Strategies
- School/Unit leaders have the discretion to develop and implement a customized approach and approval processes for Workplace Strategies
Summary of AWS Survey Results 2022
Workplace Strategies Toolkit
The Workplace Strategies Toolkit provides information and resources to help understand and implement the policy. Resources are available for managers and individuals.
Decision-Making Guidance Regarding Remote Work for School/Unit Leaders and Managers
When determining the extent to which a position can be performed on a remote basis and/or how many days the individual will work on-site, managers should consider the following criteria:
- Degree to which the work requires in-person interaction with other members of the
Northwestern community - Whether the responsibilities of the role can effectively be performed remotely
- Market-based competition for/access to talent
- Unique or niche skills, not otherwise readily available in the local market
- Other business-critical circumstances or academic needs
- Equity (e.g., whether other staff members in similar roles on the same team are permitted to work remotely)
Additional Policies
- Workers outside of Illinois
- Note: if telecommuting outside of Illinois workers must complete and submit this form.
- Note: if telecommuting outside of Illinois workers must complete and submit this form.
- Review the Staff Handbook for complete current staff employment policies and procedures.