Even though it's been a part of the American workplace for a while, the concept of a 4-day, 10-hour work week is gaining momentum as many local, state and even federal agencies are looking closely at this change to foster energy savings, eliminate unnecessary commuting, reduce road congestion, and reduce employee stress (Chicago Tribune, August 24, 2008).

Even Congress has begun examining the issue.

Companies wishing to attract younger employees have already begun to move to this work week, brushing aside concerns that such an arrangement will be a detriment to productivity and customer satisfaction.

With so much media attention, it may make sense for you and your organization to examine the appropriateness of this concept, before too many of your own employees begin to ask about its availability.  That investigation must entail how work customers can be supported all throughout the week, how to stagger staffing, which days should be mandated for full attendence, etc...