The world has embraced the idea of remote work and virtual global teams, especially since the pandemic, but that would not be possible without technology and specialized tools. The role of technology in remote work and organizational operations cannot be understated, as the emergence of remote work tools, programs, and approaches has allowed remote work to boom and made workplaces accessible like never before.
The beating heart of remote work, however, is communication. Technology that allows for open communication and collaboration between teams goes far beyond video conferencing, the idea of which dates back — incredibly — to the 1870s. The rise of the acceptance of remote work has led to more technological innovations and better tools with which to complete our jobs and communicate with team members in the best, most effective ways possible.
The necessary technology and tools
Part of the reason for the wider embrace of remote work by companies that may have been previously hesitant to jump on board may very well be the better technology that is available. Aside from Zoom, there are programs that offer breakout rooms, real-time collaboration on tasks and projects, and many resources that allow for quick delivery of services.
The IT and telecom worlds may have been some of the first to jump in on remote work allowances, with 72% of tech companies today allowing for remote work. This may be because they were the first to be aware of the technology available that makes remote work accessible and effective.
To be successful with remote work, teams must have access to robust technologies that can keep up with the delivery demands of the company, whether that company is providing an online service, IT support, or creating a product. For instance, reliable laptops and desktops are essential, Many companies will provide these for their employees so all hardware and software remain consistent across teams, but other companies may allow workers to use laptops or desktops of their choosing if the specs of the machines are not of great importance.
Whatever the company chooses, it’s crucial that the hardware is in good working condition and up-to-date. You can’t expect workers to do their best if they’re working off a tablet, their phone, or their kid’s old computer that is full of malware and old computer games.
Additionally, robust video conferencing software is a must-have for remote workers. Many organizations are still loyal to Zoom, which boasts ownership of more than half of the worldwide video conferencing market. There is also Microsoft Teams, GoTo Meeting, Cisco WebEx, and a host of other options that allow one’s teams to collaborate, meet, and speak to one another “face to face,” just as they would in an office setting.
Reliable and cost-effective cloud storage solutions are also vital for companies operating within a remote environment. Through the cloud, team members can access files and data from anywhere in the world and share updates in real-time, while ensuring their data is backed up and stored safely.
Remote companies also typically require work management software, preferably one in which their CRM (customer relationship management) software can be integrated to form a fully operational system to organize tasks, communicate updates, and manage customer relations. Furthermore, collaborative tools such as Slack, the Google Suite, and project management software like Asana can help teams stay connected and communicative throughout the workday and the lifespan of projects.
Use of technology and tools
As remote work has risen in popularity, companies have had to adopt new approaches regarding the technology and tools their employees use throughout the workday, including outlining rules and guidelines for the proper use of each tool. Remote workers should still abide by rules of etiquette and decorum when communicating across work-related communication tools.
Remote employees should also be encouraged to create a functional and professional workspace within their home, with all of the necessary tools and technology at the ready and operational when they need it. This includes checking necessary internet speeds within their workspace and making sure their computer has a functioning camera and microphone for video conferencing.
Within a remote work environment, communication becomes even more vital. Because managers can’t have eyes on every employee at all times, open communication will be required to stay updated on the status of projects or any issues that may arise. This is where the communication and collaboration tools come in handy. A quick Slack message posing an insightful question can go a long way in keeping the work day moving along smoothly.
Like it or not, remote work is here to stay. In fact, it’s estimated that by 2025, 22% of Americans will be working remotely. By continuing to innovate with tools and technology that make remote work easier, more efficient, and more accessible, organizations can expect the better productivity and performance that remote companies have become known for.
