The unprecedented rise of remote work
Adjusting and transitioning to the “new normal” of flexible work has been the reality for most businesses over the past several weeks, with almost 5 million Canadians working from home in response to COVID-19 measures. The coronavirus outbreak has triggered the largest trial run of the work-from-home (WFH) lifestyle in history. Consequently, many companies are experimenting with how to successfully work from home.
The pandemic has introduced an entirely new meaning of a “global village.” The workforce is now growing more and more interconnected through media technology – not by choice, but by necessity. As a result, companies should be prepared for a fundamental shift in the way their labor force operates. In fact, researchers are predicting that the virus will accelerate the worldwide adoption of remote work.
Though the WFH market has ebbed and flowed in recent years, companies are increasingly drawn towards the proven benefits of a flexible work environment (e.g., higher employee productivity, improved work-life balance, greater talent attraction/retention). In fact, work-from-home companies are becoming more and more common. The convergence of these trends is laying the foundation for a permanent shift to telework.
We believe that companies that embrace a forward-looking attitude when it comes to fostering a productive and safe online work environment will be rewarded in the long term. However, the biggest piece in the puzzle for businesses to tackle will be technology – it has the power to both enhance and disrupt our virtual workspaces.
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Staying safe at home
Not only are collaborative platforms like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams becoming essential tools in the WFH strategy, but the implementation of supporting technologies and comprehensive IT systems are indispensable. Businesses should not underestimate the need to strengthen their digital infrastructure during this time and should invest in remote working software.
Just as much as businesses are prepared for the switch to fully remote connections, so are hackers. Therefore, increasing traffic on organizational networks can pose significant cybersecurity threats. To mitigate issues arising with compliance, access, privacy, and collaboration, we recommend taking the following steps:
- Ensure your privacy
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or Remote Desktop Servers (RDS) can help to extend and secure encrypted networks from the office to home. The best VPN solutions are scalable and cloud-agnostic, with strong endpoint integrity checks. All corporate business applications should be accessible through this secure communication channel.
- Manage your work streams
Given heightened user demand, your virtual desktop infrastructure must be productive, simplified, and safe. Using a comprehensive cloud virtualization service like Windows Virtual Desktop can allow your business to efficiently deploy and scale desktops and applications, as well as optimize your Office 365, along with built-in security enhancements.
- Implement robust system access
To prevent unauthorized access, be sure to safeguard your data, systems, and files by using multiple points of authentication. All employees should also secure their home Wi-Fi networks and routers, set up strong passwords, and use corporate devices at all times with a VPN, if possible.
- Remain vigilant:
Cybercriminals have recently become notorious for exploiting the COVID-19 crisis by infiltrating corporate emails with malicious spam. Encourage all employees to practice cyber safe habits and exercise critical thinking when it comes to social engineering tactics.
Wingman Solutions’ WFH Strategy
Wingman Solutions is a trusted service provider that can help your business navigate the unprecedented telework situation, with 24/7 technical support available. Not only can our company facilitate your business’s unified communications during this time through our remote workforce solutions, but we can also enhance your productivity through migration and full support for all applications (e.g., Office 365). Device management is also critical at this juncture; Wingman Solutions will ensure fluidity and security across all end-user devices. Additionally, we can assist in ensuring strong VPN, endpoint, and identity solutions, with robust contingency plans for patching and vulnerabilities to mitigate performance losses.
To stay ahead of the curve, experts recommend early adoption of IT services in Mississauga and database management that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities like those of Wingman Solutions. Most importantly, we can deliver a safe and secure WFH experience for your business with a proactive security strategy.
During the post-COVID-19 return, we must be equipped to tackle the WFH reality of today. However, adopting a strong technological foundation for tomorrow can take your business to the next level.
