As the infamous coronavirus spreads around the world, many companies are asking their staff to work from home. For companies who have already explored this option, it’s a no brainer to transform your office to working remote.

The boom in working remotely may prove temporary — even if the trend behind it is not — but having more staff operating away from traditional offices is having an impact on the tools that many companies use to coordinate and communicate while apart. This is where technology comes into play. For our clients, the common tool that allows for a smooth transition to work remotely is Microsoft Office 365 Teams.

Technology – making us happier and more productive: “Work Remote” Setup

As 3.7 million employees now work from home at least half the time, and with more teams offering new strategies for working remotely, investing in inventive ways to support your remote team’s needs can secure a greater future for your business. Why opt for remote work?

Recent data suggests that remote teams enjoy greater happiness, because remote work empowers employees to perform in their preferred environment. With more and more organizations expanding globally each year, strong remote teams are not only an expanding norm, but a growing asset. Nevertheless, you can only secure the right results if you have the right tools. As you build your remote team, consider investing in the following resources.

 

According to Microsoft with Office 356 Teams you get collaboration tools like:

Online file-sharing and note-organization tools

When implementing a remote-working program, invest in software that makes it easy to store, organize, and share files, so you and your team can work on documents in and out of the office. With real-time editing capabilities, you no longer have to hassle with the back-and-forth of email. In the software, make sure you can easily create notes, respond to questions, and log updates right on the document for the benefit of your entire team.

Video and text chat services for real-time conversations

As you’re determining how to set up communications across your remote team, consider instant messaging and video software. Why? Instant messaging allows you to quickly communicate with your colleagues, while voice and video services are great for longer obligations, like meetings. In fact, an upfront investment in chat services can even reduce future call and meeting costs.

Time and energy to create a strong remote culture

Despite your investment in software and services, nothing compares to an investment in the relationships between your team. Cultivating a strong culture of trust and mutual accountability in the onboarding phase and beyond will create enduring benefits. Try hosting video hangouts or schedule in-person events each quarter to help your teams connect.

Regardless if you’re a remote worker or industry leader in charge of multiple teams, you need the right setup and the right tools for getting the most out of your remote work. Considering these points as you move forward with securing assets for your remote workers will ensure you stay ahead of the trend, not lag behind.

Remote Work – Let us Help

Switching to a remote-work setup isn’t easy. The challenge of the remote workplace is not about the physical location, but rather the sense of collaboration and connection people need to feel engaged and stay informed. That means intelligent tooling, and smart workplace norms and practices

We also recommend a set of operating standards and protocols to help employees and employers stay connected during transition.

If you have the technological means or need help configuring a remote workspace contact your SkySail Tech and we will help you transition your workforce.

 

 

Source

https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/microsoft-365/growth-center/resources/uncommon-collaboration-new-ways-for-remote-workers-to-work-together