The social distancing measures introduced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted an unprecedented number of people to start working from home. Whilst there are both business and personal advantages to working from home, without the right support in place, it can be a challenge. Take a look at seven proven strategies which can help remote workers to remain motivated, productive and effective.
1. Keep critical resources accessible and secure
With employees now working remote and using personal devices, maintaining security on company data and resources is more important than ever. Maintaining system security, ensuring data protection and making sure that back-up’s take place should be a priority. Remote IT support can provide the added expertise needed to make sure the core functions of an organisation remain intact.
2. Start leveraging the cloud
Whilst existing software may function perfectly in an office environment, the added complexity of working remote may expose how dependant that software is on everyone working in a single location. By leveraging the cloud, you can provide access to company resources no matter the location. Office 365 is a perfect example of this, allowing staff to access company data securely from any location with their internet connection.
3. Ensure IT support is available
It’s not just remote workers who will value the services of an experienced IT specialist; it’s important that IT support is available to maintain servers and other company resources. Managed IT Services can complement your existing IT Support by detecting and resolving issues before they begin to impact on your ability to trade.
4. Enhancing communication with staff and customers
The restrictions put in place by the pandemic mean that, for many businesses, the need to keep customers and staff informed is even greater than usual. In the current environment is it essential to maintain your communication technology. From trouble-shooting email issues to ensuring your inter-office chat systems are in accessible and reliable, remote IT support can assist.
5. Increasing the speed of your internet connection
A change in working practices, and an increase in internet usage may mean your internet speeds and quota are no longer suitable. Making a quick phone call to your internet provider to see if you can increase your internet speed may relieve the frustration of slow internet connections.
6. Assess your ability to work through this crisis
If COVID-19 has brought anything to light, it’s that some business are not prepared for staff to work from home. By using an IT Consultant, you can plan for these scenarios and implement strategies and technology to mitigate the risks. Working practices won’t be the same after the COVID-19 pandemic has abated and an IT specialist can advise on how best to future-proof your IT to ensure that remote workers can be accommodated with ease.
7. Flexible IT support that adapts with your business
It’s difficult for businesses to work out just how much business they’re likely to generate in the next few weeks or months. Remote IT support can be used flexibly, providing additional capacity if needed, but with no need to pay a retainer if not required.
Contact us to find out how remote IT support can ease the transition towards remote working.
