Welcome to the final blog post in our four-part series on remote and hybrid working. In this post, we will provide a summary of the key points discussed in our previous blogs and conclude with a quiz to test your understanding of the topic.
The COVID-19 crisis has had a profound impact on working practices, causing the largest shift in modern times. Prior to 2020, only a few companies offered remote work opportunities, with occasional instances of “hot desking” or employees working from coffee shops. Remote working was not a common practice.
However, COVID-19 forced businesses to adapt and modify their operations. Many business owners now face the challenge of determining how work will look in a post-pandemic world. While some may have trust concerns regarding remote employees, a significant number of workers and businesses do not foresee a complete return to office-based work.
A few stats
Before the pandemic, less than 20% of employees across the country worked from home. Presently, up to 70% of employees work remotely at least one day a week, and this number is expected to rise. Surprisingly, almost 50% of US businesses still do not permit remote work, primarily citing concerns about productivity.
However, statistics present a different story. Several studies have consistently shown that remote workers exhibit less unproductive time, work more hours per week, and can be up to 47% more productive than their in-office counterparts.
Looking ahead, a hybrid work model is emerging as a popular solution. Many businesses have downsized their office spaces, making it impossible to bring everyone back to the office. Additionally, employees have become accustomed to the new arrangement, with at least 50% expressing a desire to continue working remotely even after the pandemic subsides.
The Benefits and Risks of Remote Work
Forced to adopt remote working practices, many businesses now consider it a success. What initially posed challenges has proven to be advantageous. Most businesses plan to maintain remote work on a part-time basis, necessitating improved network performance and more efficient IT infrastructure. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) have played a vital role in enhancing IT systems for businesses worldwide.
MSPs have supported both small and large companies during the pandemic, providing access to the latest technology and offering round-the-clock support, which is not feasible for in-house IT teams working regular office hours. Remote work does present risks, such as increased vulnerability to cyberattacks or security breaches. However, MSPs have been instrumental in monitoring threats, backing up data, and ensuring constant vigilance against potential threats.
The Future of Remote Work
Many companies have found that remote work is more favorable than initially anticipated. With increased experience and confidence in remote working, it is expected that many companies will strive to maintain some level of remote work even after the pandemic subsides. Hybrid working models, where employees have more flexibility in their working patterns, are likely to become more prevalent, potentially reducing the need for extensive office spaces in the future. This shift towards hybrid work is also expected to drive an increase in demand for Managed IT services.
The Role of MSPs in Supporting the Hybrid Workforce
MSPs have faced their own challenges during the pandemic, adapting quickly to assist their clients more efficiently. They have played a crucial role in ensuring companies remain operational and available to their clients. However, MSPs do not replace the need for in-house IT teams; rather, their work complements the existing capabilities of internal IT teams.
Conclusion: Is Remote Work for You?
If you have any questions or require support in implementing a hybrid workforce strategy, please contact us. As a Managed Service Provider, we are here to help you find the perfect solution. Remember, we are your trusted partner in business growth, so take advantage of our expertise and knowledge.
