Unlocking the Benefits of Remote Work
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work (aka hybrid work) has been at the forefront of business operations. What began as a way to offer employees more flexibility has become essential for overcoming the challenges of remote work. Embracing hybrid work allows you to fundamentally improve how your business operates.
Nowadays, remote work is part of a long-term strategy to maximize your hybrid work implementation. Employees seek flexibility and an ideal internal technology experience. When planning your hybrid work strategy, consider all factors to build the ideal hybrid work model that suits your needs.
Essential Tips for Successful Remote Work
What kind of IT support do I need?
IT support is crucial, whether working remotely or on-site. Downtime means lost productivity and revenue. You need a robust IT team with a sophisticated helpdesk to address all staff inquiries. They should monitor equipment, including laptops and mobile devices, and remotely wipe content if stolen.
How secure will it be?
Security must be a priority for every small business. Cyber-criminals frequently target small businesses. A single breach can be devastating. Apply the same security standards to remote workers as you do in the office.
- Use VPN for secure network access.
- Verify identities of users, devices, and applications.
- Utilize the latest technology to defend against cyber threats.
- Conduct employee awareness training.
- Implement two-factor authentication.
How easy is it for my teams to effectively communicate and collaborate?
Effective communication and collaboration are vital. The right apps, tools, equipment, and internet connectivity make a huge difference. Securely employing these tools boosts productivity. Essential elements for successful teamwork include:
- Messaging and file exchange capabilities.
- Video and audio meeting capabilities.
- Private messaging options.
- Digital whiteboard usage.
What kind of IT infrastructure do I need?
When setting up a remote or hybrid workplace, consider these guidelines:
- Ensure you have the right internet bandwidth and a backup internet connection from a different provider if your business is mission-critical.
- Implement security measures, including a router, firewall, antivirus, and VPN software.
- Obtain adequate licenses for your main applications.
- Use remote management software to monitor remote users’ computers.
What other factors should I consider?
Budget is always a consideration. Remote users may initially require hardware and software investments for secure and easy data access. Subsequently, costs become fixed and predictable. Additional IT support costs ensure remote users access data safely and their equipment remains protected and supported.
Embracing remote work and hybrid work models can transform your business operations. Call us with any questions about setting up a remote or hybrid workplace. We will provide the right information to help you make the best decision.