I find the perspective that a cell phone can "tie people to work" very interesting.

For me, the reverse is true. Here's an example.

Instead of hurrying to get up extra early on days I have an 8:00am meeting, I can have breakfast with my wife and kids, drop the kids at the bus stop, and catch the conference call as I drive to work at a leisurely pace, my hands never touching the phone. Without the cell, I'd have a miserable, stress-laden morning and be forced to be at the office - truly tied to work.

It's the same with e-mail. I have never felt less stressed than when I no longer had to be in the office to get email. For me that means that during business hours, I am not tied to my desk. If I need to move about, or leave the office, I don't miss anything. If it's truly urgent, I can respond. If it's routine, I can leave it until I get back.

Overall it's been very liberating. But I digress.