The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of daily life, perhaps none more so than how and where we work.
Businesses have accelerated digital transformation plans and remote working has become the norm. So much so, it has made many organisations reconsider their policies and office space requirements in the long-term. It seems that the future for many of us is hybrid working.
The combination of remote and office-based working gives staff greater freedom and flexibility. Employees feel they are valued and are empowered to make decisions leading to an improved work-life balance.
However, in order for the move to hybrid working to be seamless there are a number of things to consider first. Here are our top five considerations to make hybrid working a success for your organisation.
Invest in technology, training, and support
It sounds simple but staff need the right tools and training to do their job effectively. For example, it’s crucial to ensure systems are agile, scalable, and up to date so they can adapt to the changing needs of employees and their working environments.
IT support is no longer a short walk from your desk. Remote working means organisations are investing in dedicated training sessions for staff and innovative solutions such as co-browsing technology that allows technicians to access a user’s device remotely to fix any potential issues.
Implement robust infrastructure
Hybrid working requires agile and flexible solutions that won’t break the bank, all facilitated through cloud or on-premise data centres. As a result, more and more businesses are transitioning to a blend of public and private and hybrid cloud solutions.
Cloud infrastructures allow for rapid deployment of apps and services across your network. It creates a seamless, consistent, and secure network for staff as well as allowing companies to quickly adapt to changing customer behaviours and emerging trends.
Security is key
While hybrid working offers a multitude of benefits, it also significantly increases the risk of security breaches. Potential issues include the use of corporate devices and data at home, connecting personal devices to virtual server and accessing unsecure networks with work laptops.
Have processes in place that maximise protection, such as VPNs, shared drives & documents, automatic cloud back-up, stringent laptop guidelines and designated collaboration platforms. Take into consideration your current and future business needs as this will help inform policies and reduce the security risks associated with hybrid working.
Stay connected with colleagues
One of the biggest challenges associated with hybrid working is the potential lack of face-to-face interactions with colleagues or clients. It’s important to keep staff engaged so they continue to feel valued and part of the decision-making process.
Technology can help bridge this gap and keep colleagues connected. Thanks to specific messaging platforms staff can keep in regular contact with clients and co-workers through internal or external calls or meetings. Not only does this encourage collaboration it can also have a significant impact on individuals health and wellbeing.
Management and analytics
There is no doubt that the hybrid work model is complex and requires a different style of IT management. With a workforce based in multiple locations, IT teams need to able to provision users and devices at scale with ease, access robust analytics and troubleshoot issues through an effective network model.
It’s clear that our working habits have changed for good and hybrid working will be the way forward. This will not only improve employees’ overall workplace experience but also encourage collaboration whether working from home, in the office, or on the move.
These key considerations can help inform your journey into the cloud and deliver an experience that benefits both your business and employees. To find out more, download our eBook or contact us here.
Reach out to our Cisco team for more information.