Virtual reality might soon help telecommuters create the type of presence that many companies think only offices provide. If the technology can achieve the subtle but critical nuances of group discussions, "then we finally have a chance to put the commute in our rear-view mirror," said Stanford University psychologist Jeremy Bailenson.

Managers need to provide opportunities for career development if they want to keep employees from leaving to find better opportunities. This article explains how to get started, including the potential for making development part of everyday activities.

Some workers' groups want legislation that would impose a fee on gig-economy transactions to fund benefits for independent contractors. Companies have considered an optional fee to help workers access medical coverage, but most have hesitated to mandate anything that jeopardizes tax breaks associated with nonemployee status.

Companies need to adjust their strategy as states and cities pass laws that prevent employers from asking job candidates about salary history. Here are several tips for determining the market rate for a position and for avoiding legal pitfalls.