Bytes

Bytes –essential but just a facilitator

Corona has shown us that remote working is at least feasible. With the right IT, we can work from anywhere. Provide access to all the relevant information and resources from a central system – regardless of time, location and device – and yes, you’re on your way. But we need to be wary. Of course, it is essential. But it is just one of the pieces of the puzzle…

The goal of the new workplace in terms of IT

Advanced workstations enable barrier-free and easy use of the various company applications. 1.3 million digital natives are entering the job market and they expect more meaning and independence in their work. Companies must now think very clearly about how to stay ahead in this rapidly changing environment.

The challenge for companies is now to strike a balance between retaining existing employees, attracting this Generation Z and changing the way of working so that the ultimate goal of a digital enterprise becomes attainable.

What a new workplace looks like

Salesforce summarises what a digital workplace needs to do in five points:

1. IT integration

Business-relevant applications and collaboration functions are merged. Data from all software systems used (e.g. ERP, CRM, BI etc.) are merged in a central platform, i.e. a portal. Users have access to all relevant applications through their browsers.

2. Mobile access to business applications

Mobility management gives employees seamless access to business applications from anywhere, anytime. This increases productivity and collaboration with colleagues, partners and customers. These applications also support virtual teams in a coherent and efficient collaboration. They provide them with the right information when they need it. Knowledge management software and collaboration platforms are crucial for this. They are used to store project documents centrally. Team members can access, read, modify, and collaborate in real time at any time.

3. Suitable access devices

Employees must have the best access to their digital workplace anywhere, whether via smartphone, tablet or PC.

4. Powerful communication infrastructure

Connectivity, both in the office and on the road, is crucial for the functionality of the digital workplace. The functionality of communications technology as well as business and collaboration applications are crucial. Enterprise networks must be able to handle simultaneous voice, video and data transmissions both in and out of the enterprise.

5. Data security

The convergence of cloud computing, social media and mobile computing has put the issue of data security on the global agenda. However, modern technologies meanwhile allow secure storage of company data in the cloud and secure mobile access to it.

 Now or never…

Churchill is renowned for saying we should never let a good crisis go to waste. With the impact of Corona, we should go a step further. You cannot afford to let this crisis go to waste. Now – right now – if you do not get your IT up to scratch, you can be sure the competition will shoot past you in the fast lane and you’ll struggle to attract the new digital natives entering the job market. If you would like to talk about setting up a new IT infrastructure in line with new ways of working, please contact me below.