I've worked remotely for about 7 years now, with startups and more established companies. These companies have typically been distributed themselves, realizing

I've worked remotely for about 7 years now, with startups and more established companies. These companies have typically been distributed themselves, realizing that it is easier to work with smart people where they are than to try to get everyone to move to a specific place. We are constantly connected with IM, IRC, phones, Skype, etc. And we can handle development and problem solving around the clock easily. I have no commute, nor does anyone else. And yet we have all seemed to function efficiently, with now problem that I've seen. And we are as effective as any team I have ever worked with, with none of the water cooler chat that goes on in the office. In fact, any team situation I've worked in has easily seen 50% of the day consumed by non-work-related conversation and meetings with no agenda and no responsibilities given. I'll stick with remote work thanks.