Remote work is here to stay. In fact, Zippia reports that in 2022, 26% of U.S. employees worked remotely. That number is expected to increase in 2023 and beyond, as “59% of workers report being more likely to choose an employer that allows remote work rather than one that doesn’t.” Whether your team is working fully remotely or in a hybrid environment, there are several important technology solutions your business should consider to ensure your team communicates effectively, works productively, and stays secure. Let’s dive in to a few of our top work from home technology considerations as you prepare for the year ahead.
Multi-Layered Security Defense
Security was a major concern in 2022, and it will continue to stay top of mind in 2023. Phishing scams and data breaches affected companies of all sizes and industries in 2022, which is why having a multi-layered security strategy should be a top business priority as we head into 2023. When your team works remotely, your business must consider additional security measures to support them and safeguard your business.
While security needs will vary based on your unique risks, here are a few common solutions to consider:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Eliminate your company’s #1 risk right off the bat with MFA. By enabling this application, you will add an additional layer of security to your applications and accounts.
- Cloud Security: With a remote team, chances are they are accessing your data via the cloud. Although the cloud allows for seamless collaboration, it can also make your data more vulnerable to cyber attacks. Ensure your team stays protected with the right cloud security solutions.
- Data Back-Up and Recovery: Your data is one of the most important aspects of your business — especially when it’s accessible via the cloud. Ensure it stays protected with a robust data back-up and recovery strategy. In the event of a data breach, you will ensure business continuity and data restoration.
- Cybersecurity Awareness Training: One of the biggest risks begins with your people and their level of cybersecurity awareness and understanding. Conduct ongoing trainings to educate your team on the latest cybercriminal techniques and mitigate any gaps in your protection.
Collaboration Tools: Microsoft 365
A successful remote team must be supported with easy-to-use collaboration tools. Our recommendation? Microsoft 365’s tools. From project collaboration tools to meeting scheduling tools, your team’s productivity and workflow will improve with the help of Microsoft’s robust office products. Many businesses are familiar with Microsoft Outlook and Office, but we want to stress the importance of Sharepoint.
Sharepoint is a web-based collaborative platform that integrates with Microsoft Office. It’s designed as a management and storage system that allows your team to manage content, knowledge, and applications from anywhere. What’s most notable about Sharepoint is that you can completely customize it to fit your business needs and streamline your team’s work. You can even collaborate securely with those outside your organization, across PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. It’s one of the best tools to empower teams!
If you’re interested in exploring more about Sharepoint, PCA is hosting complimentary online trainings through PCA University. We have several upcoming virtual sessions on Sharepoint. Learn more and sign up here.
Communication Tools: Microsoft Teams
In addition to collaboration tools, effective communication tools are a must-have. This includes anything your team may use to communicate including video conferencing tools, webinar hosting tools, text chatting tools, and, email tools.
Microsoft Teams is our top recommendation to support your remote team. It has all the features you need to meet, call (via phone and video), chat, and collaborate on shared projects — all in one secure application. Teams is an incredibly versatile and powerful application that can transform your business. See how United Airlines utilized Teams to build on their hybrid, flexible culture.
Support Your Remote Team With PCA Technology Group
If you’re looking for additional technology support for your remote team, consider PCA Technology Group. Since 1989, we have been serving small to medium-sized businesses like yours with customized technology services. From managed IT and cloud computing services to cybersecurity and software development, we have the knowledge and expertise to support your business needs and business infrastructure. With our customer-focused mindset and our commitment to service excellence, we look forward to supporting your remote team in the New Year and beyond.
