In our previous blog post, we discussed how companies have adapted their workflows during the pandemic and emphasized the longevity of the hybrid work model, where employees combine remote work with office work. According to a study by the Institute of Directors, 74% of companies plan to support remote work even after the pandemic. While this is good news for many, it poses challenges for IT departments.
When employees only visit the office a few times a week, a seamless IT infrastructure becomes crucial. Challenges such as data security, reduced visibility, and home Wi-Fi connectivity issues need to be addressed for effective and efficient hybrid work. This is where IT support plays a vital role.
Challenges Arising from COVID-19
The global health crisis of 2020 presented significant challenges for businesses. It was an opportunity for us to enhance, shift, and adapt to the new reality. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) quickly learned how to support businesses in serving their clients and employees remotely. However, many companies still had static and inflexible network designs, requiring substantial changes to accommodate the remote workforce. Bandwidth limitations, security concerns, and increased cloud traffic necessitated the assistance of IT professionals to ensure a smooth transition.
MSPs as Key Partners
MSPs have played a crucial role in addressing the emerging challenges of remote working. Their strong relationships with network operators enable them to find the best available services to solve their clients’ problems. MSPs provide support for remote workers, including phones, software, data storage, and security. They complement existing in-house teams by monitoring network security, server performance, and preventing costly outages through increased security measures. Ultimately, a reliable MSP minimizes disruptions to key business functions.
Mobility Support and Cloud Technology
MSPs offer mobility support, enabling remote workers to be as effective at home as they were on-site. Setting up phones, tablets, and webcams ensures seamless communication and connectivity. Cloud technology has become essential in the current remote working landscape, and MSPs can assist businesses in migrating their IT infrastructure to a secure cloud-based system. This allows employees to maintain productivity from any location, while MSPs ensure the necessary security measures are in place.
Automation for Efficiency
Automation plays a crucial role in streamlining the hybrid workforce experience. Repetitive tasks like data entry can be automated, freeing up employees to focus on more complex and value-added assignments, leading to increased productivity and business growth. Diagnostic tools can also be automated, empowering employees to troubleshoot and resolve minor issues remotely, reducing reliance on other team members and saving valuable time. Automation also improves visibility within the organization, facilitating transparent interactions, progress tracking, and updates.
Assisting Companies in the Transition to a Hybrid Workplace
The hybrid workplace is expected to endure for the long term, if not indefinitely. MSPs can help companies embrace the changes forced by the pandemic and ensure business continuity while providing the necessary support for future growth. By establishing a robust IT support base, companies can reap the benefits of a successful transition. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your network infrastructure or implementing a hybrid workplace, please reach out to us. As your trusted MSP, we are here to assist you with all your technology-related needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
