Productivity and unity: Remote working for business24 May 2006
Businesses of all sizes in the UK are increasingly taking advantage of broadband technology to enhance day-to-day operations. Whether it be more cost-effective and convenient communications solutions such as VoIP, extended and accessible sales through an online shop or working while on the move, there is no doubt that broadband is an essential part of growing a competitive and successful business.
Sit on any commuter train at rush hour and the extent to which broadband internet reaches is obvious. The ability to continue working while on the move has virtually eliminated previously wasted hours, boosting employee productivity and therefore company profits.
But it is not just businesses as a whole that can benefit from remote and flexible working. Staff members too can reap the benefits from a change in working practices, as the daily grind is opened up and made more mobile.
A case study by the Times Online found that implementing remote working practices can:
- Enhance productivity, allowing more to be achieved in the course of the working day.
- Improve customer service and satisfaction as better communication channels and response time are facilitated.
- Boost staff morale, as working on the move in a flexible and efficient way can be more rewarding and create a better work-life balance.
- Improve team unity, as previously isolated contractors or mobile staff can access office information and communicate with colleagues more easily and more often.
Remote access technology
In order to allow a team of employees to work effectively while on the move, it is essential that a system is established through which they may access the same information as if they were sitting at their desk.
Finance manager of the company the Times spoke to about remote working, Nick Robbins-Cherry of Invocom, said: "Running a team of consultants and contractors always has its challenges from a communications point of view. These have become even greater over the past few years, with teams needing to collaborate, as well as accessing mails in the office, at home, on a client site and being available on the phone."
He added: "Our employees often use email as their primary means of communication with customers and colleagues, so it is essential they can access their accounts securely from wherever they are - whether that be a client site, hotel room or home office."
A package such as BT's Remote Access Pack offers secure access to office email, files, data and network, allowing staff members to be as productive when they are out of the office as when they are in it.
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