From onsite to online, technology has completely transformed the way we work by providing a way for hybrid teams to connect and collaborate. We asked Lana Chegodaev, Category Manager – Technology, to share her best tech advice on how you can make hybrid working a success, wherever you choose to work.
Tip 1: Invest in the latest technology for hybrid workers
“According to a PWC report, 74% of Australian workers desire a mix of remote and in-person working choices1. With hybrid working here to stay, workers must always have access to their workplaces and be readily connected no matter where they work.
“As a result, there is a greater than ever need for cutting-edge technology to help employees stay connected and productive. Organisations must consider how employees move between work locations and invest in appropriate technology and hardware to ensure a seamless and high-quality experience.” advises Lana.
“This includes purchasing high-quality hardware, such as headsets, monitors, and webcams, for employees who continue to adopt flexible working arrangements,” advises Lana.
“Workers who work remotely or in a hybrid environment must take advantage of useful tech gadgets. Hybrid workers will require adaptable, travel-friendly accessories, to complete their work whether in or out of the office. Hybrid-friendly accessory packs and carry cases, as well as lightweight keyboards and mice, are great for employees who carry their gear between the home and office.”
Tip 2: Enable productivity anywhere
“Upgrade your office’s audio-visual technology to allow for fully integrated video conferencing and team meetings. This provides a seamless experience for all attendees, regardless of location, allowing remote and in-person participants to have the same experience. As our working environment is rapidly evolving, technology that caters to our changing needs is growing alongside it.
“Collaboration areas and meeting rooms should be outfitted with simple plug-and-play technology. Rather than having people come on site to measure walls, drill holes, and run cable, businesses are now investing in more affordable and user-friendly solutions,” says Lana.
“While those working from home might have a perfect setup with a monitor, headset and peace and quiet, those working in the office may have a challenging time connecting with their colleagues online without dedicated meeting rooms and the right setup. I’d strongly advise businesses to invest in an audio-visual setup for a more seamless and collaborative experience,” suggests Lana.
Tip 3: Combat digital fatigue
A study conducted by Microsoft’s Human Factors Labs found that brainwave patterns associated with stress were significantly higher during remote collaboration as opposed to face-to-face collaboration.2
“Digital fatigue can be a challenge, especially for those working from home more than a few days a week. When you’re in the office you have more opportunity to be mobile – you have the option to walk over to a colleague’s desk to ask a question and move from one meeting room to another. When you’re at home on a regular basis, you might find yourself sitting in the same place for an extended period of time, depending on how your day progresses,” says Lana.
“Managing digital fatigue is about setting the necessary boundaries to allow your brain to recharge and your body to move around. There are a range of hardware solutions that enable us to be more fluid in how we work,” advises Lana.
“For example, to move around, you can seamlessly transfer a call from your laptop to your mobile, all while using the same Bluetooth-enabled headset that can connect from one device to another.
“To support a hybrid workforce, you need the right set of hardware. When you have the right technology, you can successfully break down those physical barriers,” concludes Lana.
Winc can connect you to the technology products you need to make hybrid working a success. View our complete list of the latest Tech for a hybrid world.
References:
1’PWC, 2022, ‘Changing Places: Designing hybrid offices that work’, <pwc.com.au/future-of-work-design-for-the-future/designing-a-hybrid-office.html>
2Spataro, J., 2020, ‘The future of work – the good, the challenging & the unknown’ <https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2020/07/08/future-work-good-challenging-unknown/>
