A CHANGING WORKPLACE

While many companies are already working remotely, the lockdown has meant many more companies are now having to work from home.

Businesses must utilise technology to continue to drive their business forward, adopting videoconferencing software for business communications and cloud computing for accounting, customer relationship and data management.

These platforms and tools make tasks easier and more efficient, allowing us to connect and collaborate regardless of location. John Burns, Managing Director of Diamond Group, believes the future of the workplace has changed forever, and technology plays a major part in it.

“One of the key things we’ve learned from the initial lockdown, and in the unfamiliar territory of remote working, is the importance of communication.

“Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Circuit have made it easy to connect and catch up with your team and are proving to be an efficient communication tool for all aspects of business”.

He also acknowledges that one of the main challenges is keeping productivity up and resisting the urge to stay in your pyjamas and put on the TV while checking up on emails. But just because your desk is now your dining table, it doesn’t mean the tools we use to stay on track in the office are completely redundant.

“With staff spread all over the region (if not the country) and all trying to access, view and edit documents, now is the time to invest in an efficient file sharing tool,” states John. “Whether it’s via a cloud-based server or software like Google Drive, having everything your team needs in one place will make working from home smoother for everyone.”

Regardless of the software or platform, John reminds us that these emerging products are a symbol of the future workplace to come.

“While we may not shift completely to remote working yet, still holding onto a few smaller offices instead of the large open-plan space, much of the future of work will be distributed. It’s a trend that’s not going away and those who recognise the importance of these tools and products will thrive.” ONE OF THE KEY “ THINGS WE’VE LEARNED FROM THE INITIAL LOCKDOWN, AND IN THE UNFAMILIAR TERRITORY OF REMOTE WORKING, IS THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION.”

John Burns is the founder of Diamond Group, a hassle-free IT, Communications, Photocopier and Financial Services provider. Diamond Group pride themselves on the excellent service they provide to their customers and want to reassure everyone that they are still able to provide their firstclass service during the current uncertainty.