How to Leverage Technology for Remote Work in the New Normal

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Over the past years, technology has continued to make significant strides. Software, programs, and assistive tools have provided a more efficient and effective process for many companies and employees. Today, the world slowly regains its footing after Covid-19 ravaged the world.

However, not all changes are negative. In the past two years, businesses have found a way to incorporate a work-from-home (WFH) setup for their employees while maintaining optimum performance. Some companies have introduced a hybrid format, allowing workers to go to the office a couple of times a week and WFH on other days.

Technology has allowed WFH and hybrid setups to work, and so as it continues to evolve, business owners and employers need to adapt. This article discusses ways to make the most of technology for remote work in the new normal.

Technology is Constantly Evolving

Each year, there is a major technological advancement that occurs. Whether it’s a new phone or a new program, technology is continually developing. This is because several tech giants constantly aim to provide society with efficient, practical tools.

In the new normal today, offices may have shut down. But that hasn’t stopped companies from continuing their operations. Thanks to the several online tools and equipment, businesses can continue operations like normal.

However, some people may ask, what are the ways to make the most out of these tools? How do they work? Here’s a quick rundown of how to leverage technology for remote work.

Use productivity tools

Some people perform their best when in the office. The shift to a WFH setup may be difficult at first, but there are several productivity tools that can help remote work be more manageable. A primary productivity tool can come in a workflow management system.

An example of this is Trello, where employees can track their projects, collaborate with team members, and organize files. It is also possible to include Google files in these programs, making it more efficient to manage different tasks and projects.

Incorporate automation tools

Automation can be a literal lifesaver in a WFH setup. In a traditional office setup, there are people assigned to do miscellaneous paperwork manually. However, in a WFH setup, not all paperwork can be done manually, let alone physically.

Several industries have shifted to using online file storage and programs such as Google Drive, including its workspace features like Google Docs and Google Sheets, to conduct their paperwork. With automation, it is possible to let the tool accomplish these tasks, leaving the rest of the team to tackle more important matters.

Utilize virtual meeting tools

One of the most popular must-have tools companies use today is virtual meeting tools. Examples of this are

• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Zoom
• Skype
• Slack
• GoToMeeting/GoToWebinar
• Freeconferencecall
• WebEx

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced people to stay indoors more often, and because of the uncertainty of the virus, it has not been safe to hold physical meetings. These meeting tools allow businesses to conduct their regular meetings while maintaining privacy.

A significant benefit of this is flexibility since anyone in the team can participate in the meeting regardless of where they are.

Have a file-sharing software

In a WFH setup, not everyone will be able to share files compared to a traditional office structure. However, with how advanced technology has become, file sharing is possible online with DropBox and Google Drive programs.

It provides different team members access to various files from documents, presentations, and sheets, making it efficient for people to work on their tasks and collaborate with others.

This is a must-have for businesses that work with an outsourcing team. With this in mind, it is best to ensure that the software has a good cybersecurity network since business files are very personal. Because of how many companies have shifted to a WFH setup, it is best to research which cybersecurity tool will protect the business.

Consider cloud business solutions

Cloud business solutions have allowed businesses to continue their core operations amid the pandemic. The cloud solutions can store valuable assets and enable employees to work and maintain business functions entirely online.

Some of the benefits of having a cloud business solution are scalability, more flexibility, and reduced IT costs.

Technology Moving Forward

New tools and technologies have allowed businesses to evolve how they operate and how employees perform at work. Not everyone has to be present in the office anymore. Instead, companies incorporate a system that benefits each employee through a hybrid or full WFH setup.

As developers continue to create new tools and systems, it is possible that one day that a WFH setup can be a primary structure for several businesses. It offers employees more work-life balance while completing their tasks at their own pace.

It is time to embrace technology as a means of doing business. These technological advancements allow society to do so, and it is time to take advantage of it.