Virtual offices - how they benefit small business13 June 2005
The rise of broadband and advanced communications technology has meant that for many of us the days of being tied to an office with the attendant daily commute are quickly coming to an end. Broadband Internet and the benefits it offers mean that more and more of us are considering the option of working from home with a 'virtual office'.
So where is the 'office'?
The short answer is anywhere. That could be home, car, airport, beach, or even on a mountaintop, meaning you can work wherever you need to be. The most likely location is your home. Things to consider when choosing where to work are lack of distractions and ample space. Use the room that will be most conducive to getting work done and make your office a designated work space - even if it's in your bedroom or the kitchen.
If you need to have an official sounding business address or suitable offices to meet clients or conduct training a virtual office provider can provide offices to rent for meetings and times when you need to have a smart and professional physical location.
Why go virtual?
There are several benefits to running your business from a virtual office, here are just a few:
- Time saved not commuting to an office - also reducing congestion, pollution and costs
- Vastly reduced costs of renting business premises
- Being able to work when you are most productive - boosting productivity
- Money saved in commuting, lunches, business clothing etc
- A more relaxing work environment, with the opportunity to take meaningful breaks and physical exercise
- The ability to take your work with you - as you have already set up a virtual office you will be able to work on the way to meetings or wherever you want to go.
So what do I need?
To set up a virtual office the main prerequisite for smooth running and productivity is broadband. Having high-speed Internet access means you can download and transfer files easily and quickly, keep the telephone line free, and save money with an 'always on' connection.
When you have a broadband connection to get the most out of it several pieces of equipment will be required.
Basic kit should include:
- Desktop PC, or laptop for ultimate freedom
- Printer
- Phone/answering machine
- Word processing including HTML editor
- Email program such as Microsoft Outlook
- Spreadsheet software
- Virus scanner
More detailed information on virtual offices and the issues surrounding teleworking can be found at Howstuffworks and the Department of Trade and Industry.
