The rise of the virtual assistant (VA) has been identified as another outcome of both the recession and the growing trend for flexible, home-based working.

Technologies like video conferencing and instant messaging are prompting an ever-growing number of organisations to facilitate homeworking opportunities for employees.

A new homeworking venture is being launched by Dell in collaboration with a US college that will train technicians to provide support for consumer and corporate computing systems.

Over half of accountants in the UK believe having the option to work from home would "greatly improve" their work-life balance.

Individuals who work from home can find a market for or test the profitability of a product with the help of the online affiliate marketing business model, according to one seasoned internet entrepreneur.

Homeworkers have welcomed a new online accounting venture providing access to finance and tax specialists who offer advice on everything from offsetting costs against tax, to setting up a home office.

Individuals sizing up available work-from-home opportunities have been advised to look to personal contacts and referrals for leads, rather than email solicitations.

Individuals keen to work from home in the UK could be set to benefit from a "home agent programme" developed by relationship management experts Convergys.

Home improvements experts across the pond are using National Work From Home Week (4-10 October) to highlight some of the easiest ways to "set up shop" away from the office.