3 Must-Have IT Services for Remote Working

3 Must-Have IT Services for Remote Working

Commuting Sucks!

This summer has brought a new level of horror to commuting. Crowds, a heatwave and unprecedented train problems… it’s definitely time to consider remote working.

The Benefits of Remote Working

Working remotely helps both employees and the organisation. 91% of British firms have employees working remotely and from home. Half of the UK workforce is expected to be working remotely by 2020. Advantages include:

• Better productivity – working remotely increases productivity by 16%
• Increased flexibility – employees can be sourced and located anywhere in the world
• Reduced office costs – including overheads and equipment
• More time – remote employees are almost twice as likely to work beyond 40 hours a week
• Higher morale – happiness, motivation and sense of freedom are generally stronger among remote workers. People are thought to work 12% harder when they are happy.
• Green credentials – less travelling offers environmental benefits

Tempting, isn’t it?

Mark Greenaway, director of emerging business, EMEA, at Adobe, says: “Remote working is one of the most revolutionary business trends of recent years, and has given rise to a host of technologies that provide a more intuitive working experience, improve employee productivity and unshackle people from the office.”

3 IT Services That Support Remote Working

Here are three essential IT services that every remote worker needs:

1. Internet and Email Service

The basic ingredient for remote working is cloud technology. This enables online, unified communication, allowing teams to stay connected and work flexibly regardless of location. Examples include video conferencing, instant messaging and voice calls as well as email – all within one entity.

Cloud technology needs reliable internet access – speed is important too. Access to email and cloud storage will ensure that employees are in touch and informed, updating information that other employees can access as needed.

2. Phone Line – With Voicemail

The phone is one of the most essential tools for any remote worker. It’s the easiest and quickest way of keeping in contact with the office and clients. Traditional telephone equipment may not be necessary. Internet-based phone services allow you to use just a headset with your computer for making calls online, and these VoIP services are often cheaper too.

3. A Computer

Remote workers need a device to access the internet and any applications or software needed for their job. Although the majority of work will best be done on a regular computer, other mobile devices are extremely useful for quick work on the go. A desktop support service helps to minimise downtime should any problem arise.

“IT services enable businesses to future-proof their workforces and embrace flexible working,” says Eric Hughes of EMH Technology. “The solutions involved are often less complicated and more cost-effective than people may think.”

To find out more about the IT solutions that could help your business to benefit from efficient remote working, talk to EMH Technology. We love to talk about technology – jargon-free – and there’s no obligation involved.