As modern technology delivers faster and more convenient ways to deliver information, people are looking for dependable ways to work from home. For some, it's growing disenchantment with the daily grind of commuting to the regular nine-to-five; others are motivated by the need to combine a source of income with the opportunity to spend more time at home with the kids.

In theory, working from home has never been easier. The speed and easy access of the Internet has revolutionized the way we do business. Documents and files can be transferred electronically in a moment, and the new world of the virtual office has changed the way companies manage projects.

But does a home based career really deliver the freedom that the jaded commuter dreams of? To a certain extent, a job is a job wherever you do it -- and it's easy to underestimate the new challenges it poses. If you're thinking of working at home, here are some issues to consider:

• Do you have the right temperament? A new kind of willpower is needed to maintain work routines at home. It can be difficult to recreate the kind of discipline that normally comes from having to show up at the office on time each day -- and some people thrive on the camaraderie that's a usual part of office life. A home-based job requires a different level of motivation and self-sufficiency.

• Have you taken stock of the financial implications? A degree of investment may well be needed to set you up in business at home. While you may already have a computer, you'll also need supplies and some sort of dedicated office space -- or at least a place where you and your work will not be disturbed. And while it's true that you can save money on some aspects of your working life, such as clothing and transport, you may encounter new expenses if you become self-employed.

• Will you have to balance the requirements of work and children? Even if you're based at home, you may still need help with child care if you're going to work productively. It takes a special kind of flexibility and resourcefulness to combine a home career with the needs of children. You may be able to work part-time or use the hours when younger children are asleep to get those tasks done that require particular concentration.

• How will you keep your home career and family life separate? Your family will learn to respect your time and resources when they see you taking your work seriously.
  • Having a specific work place at home will emphasize to them the importance of allowing you the privacy you need to work efficiently.
  • Try to keep to a consistent schedule and avoid interruptions such as social phone calls or running errands during your working hours
  • When work is over for the day, try to leave it entirely and devote yourself to family concerns
  • Let the family see the benefits of having you at home during the day: perhaps you will be able to attend more school events, play with the children regularly or cook at home more often -- without compromising your working routine.

Whatever the dream scenario, working from home is not an easy option for everyone. Many business owners and telecommuters have found great success and fulfillment in a work at home career, but there's certainly a lot more to it than the freedom to work in your pajamas!