More and more large corporations are allowing their employees to work remotely. For many of these businesses, this comes down to issues with office space. Others, however, use the telecommuting life as a way to lure in qualified individuals.

As a matter of fact, there are many businesses—small and large alike—that are becoming advocates of working remotely. This is mainly due to a landslide of studies conducted in the last 10 years or so that prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that employees that work from home are much more productive than those working in the office.

These studies determine that there are a variety of reasons for this increase in productivity. Essentially, it was proven that a change in scenery can help boost productivity. A few examples include:

• The fast-paced and often restrictive environment of an office can stifle creativity and any sort of motivation.
• Alternatively, unfamiliar and new ambient noises tend to keep us alert and focused; this include a steady thrum of people for those that work in coffee shops or even something as simple as music at home (something most offices naturally frown upon).
• Working from home allows employees to set their own schedules. If they work better very early in the morning, they can start knocking out tasks at 5 a.m. And if they are night owls, they can work after midnight, so long as deadlines are met.

Of course, there are drawbacks to working out of the office, such as the feeling of camaraderie with co-workers. And some people just work better in the office—the freedom of working from home is an obstacle more than a help.

As an employer, these are all points worth considering. And if you’re an employee, be honest with yourself and your employer. If you believe you work better from home, bring it up to your employer but be ready to have some evidence as to why it would work to their benefit.