Technology has introduced the “remote workforce”. And without innovative breakthroughs in technology, working from home would not have become such a popular option in today’s world. That’s why you need the latest technologies and expertise to succeed with your remote workforce.
Time, remote access, security and productivity – these are some of the biggest issues most businesses face when moving to a remote workforce.
- Can files, data and communications be accessed remotely?
- Is there a way to centralize and organize collaboration?
- Are you putting your server and network at risk?
- How do you keep everyone on the same page?
- What happens when your system fails?
Some of the greatest challenges with your remote workforce can be overcome simply by understanding which types of systems and solutions you need.
That’s where an MSP (managed service provider) comes in to save the day.
Virtual Private Network
Can files, data and communications be accessed remotely?
A virtual private network (VPN) keeps you connected everywhere you go. VPNs not only do this but offer an added layer of security to your technology stack, and this type of network is ideal for those employing a remote workforce.
BYOD or “bring your own device” policies are one aspect of your remote workforce that leaves you vulnerable, but a VPN works to protect end-user devices no matter how mobile you go.
Office 365
Is there a way to centralize tasks and organize collaboration?
Some of the best tools for a remote workforce come from the cloud. Office 365 is a cloud hosted application package that includes everything your team needs to develop projects, set appointments and send messages all in one place.
The beauty of Office 365 is having one software solution that does it all. A managed service provider helps organizations install these applications, update them as needed and renew licenses to end tedious disruptions in your daily operations.
Risk Prevention Monitoring
Are you putting your server and network at risk?
Take extra precautions when working remotely. As with any type of business or organization, moving to a remote workforce tempts cyber criminals. For each additional remote worker, you add another gap in your security, because cyber-attacks tend to exploit the end-user most; and why wouldn’t they when it’s so easy to do?
Risk prevention monitoring with a managed service provider helps you prep for an attack or even deflect threats before they happen. This puts your remote workforce on the defense and minimizes the risk of downtime in the long run.
VoIP Phone Systems
How do you keep everyone on the same page?
Keep your remote workforce communicating. A voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone system works to consolidate your communications and allows you to add or remove lines with ease. This phone system communicates over Wi-Fi connections to unite your workforce and offer you the option of dialing in to conference calls.
The best part about VoIP is how much you can save on your phone bills. With many businesses saving an upwards of 40 percent with VoIP, making the switch seems a matter of logic.
Technical Support
What happens when your system fails?
Remember Murphy’s Law – anything that can go wrong will go wrong. As much as we wish it wasn’t true, plenty of break/fix bills prove it. But the problem with waiting to fix it after it’s broken is that the solution to your problem often costs much more than it would if you had simply patched the holes in your security in the first place.
It is possible to prevent downtime events and slowdowns with a managed service provider. But when there isn’t time, emergency technical support is a much-needed service for your remote workforce. Not only does it give you a rapid response team, it gives you the tools and expertise you need to avoid future problems.
What solutions does your organization need to succeed with a remote workforce?
Our business specializes in managed services for your remote workforce. Contact us today, and let’s talk about the best IT tools for you.