This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
As the world adapts to remote working, businesses are facing a new challenge: finding the right balance between onsite and remote work.
Some companies, like Twitter, Quora, and Slack, have thrived in the remote work era, while others are struggling to make the transition.
However, a balanced approach can be the ideal solution, combining the benefits of both onsite and remote work.
Assessing Needs ¶
Before making any decisions, it's essential to weigh the benefits of a fully-staffed workplace and identify which functions can be done remotely.
For instance, if teams collaborate well and are more creative in the office, investing in office space may be worth it.
Similarly, employees may feel more comfortable approaching management face-to-face than over email or video call.
Additionally, mental health is a crucial factor to consider, as remote work may not be suitable for everyone.
Utilizing Technology ¶
With a blended workforce, striking a balance can be challenging, but virtual networking technologies can help.
Virtual meetings, cloud-based office suites, and project management tools can facilitate seamless communication and teamwork, making it easier to manage projects and collaborate with remote workers.
These technologies can also help with project management, budgeting, timelines, resources, communication, and quality, making it easier to streamline day-to-day operations and improve productivity.
A New Normal ¶
Most businesses have been heading towards a hybrid model, where some employees are remote and others work onsite.
However, this needn't be problematic, as both onsite and remote work offer distinct advantages, depending on the function or individual task being fulfilled.
With the right approach and technologies, it's possible to leverage the benefits of both without falling prey to any of the disadvantages traditionally associated with them.
As the region manager, Africa, at Zoho, I believe that finding the balance between onsite and remote work is key to success in today's business landscape.
