[andrewcooke]

i think it depends on personal taste. i'm lucky - i love working from home and, since i live in s america, that lets me telecommute (which means better pay). but i have always been a "loner". i don't mean i'm a socipath(!), i can get on just fine with people (and enjoy their company), but am happiest by myself. i also find it hugely more productive (although you do have to worry more about compensating for low bandwidth communication - but that gets easier with practice, and easier still when you're working with the same people for a while).

although once a week for 20m sounds a bit low. we do also have a daily email (progress/plans) and i will typically chat or email with co-workers or clients (as necessary) most days.

i'm sorry it didn't work for you - hope you find a more communal job! :)