The rise of hybrid work has created a unique set of technology needs for small businesses and large enterprises alike. Primarily, hybrid work necessitates that companies have the right technology tools and infrastructure in place to support this work setup.
If your Toronto-based business is going the hybrid work route, these are the top technologies you should have to create an efficient and secure hybrid workplace.
Cloud-based software
Cloud-based software enables seamless collaboration and communication among both remote and on-site employees. It allows for easy access to documents, applications, and other resources from any internet-connected device. This helps ensure your employees can access the tools they need regardless of location or time zone differences.
What’s more, with cloud-based solutions, your business can securely store data across multiple devices, increasing flexibility and scalability. And best of all, cloud-based solutions are often cost-effective, as they require fewer hardware investments.
Fast and reliable internet connection
A strong internet connection is necessary for remote workers to stay connected to their colleagues and access company resources, such as the tools and applications they need to do their jobs effectively. A fast and reliable connection also ensures that businesses can efficiently transfer large files such as images, videos, and documents between different departments or locations, keeping processes efficient.
Mobile devices
Employees are increasingly using their mobile devices to stay productive in a hybrid workplace. This is because mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets provide the flexibility and portability employees need to access important applications, data, and resources no matter where they are. These also allow remote workers to stay in the loop with colleagues through instant messaging services or video conferencing apps.
Collaboration tools
Your hybrid workplace needs various tools to ensure that employees can effectively communicate and collaborate with each other in both remote and on-site settings. For instance, video conferencing apps, task management software, and interactive whiteboards enable teams to hold virtual meetings, share resources, exchange information, and provide feedback in real time as if everyone is present in the same physical space.
Collaboration tools also help keep both remote and on-site employees connected despite geographical distance. For example, instant messaging apps like Slack provide employees with an avenue for holding water cooler talks virtually, allowing them to socialize wherever they may be.
Cybersecurity measures
A hybrid workplace offers more entry points for cybercriminals than a traditional work environment, so cybersecurity should be among your top priorities.
Some of the essential cybersecurity solutions that a hybrid workplace needs include:
- Antivirus and anti-malware software – scans files, websites, and email attachments to identify and remove viruses and malicious software before they can cause damage
- Firewall – prevents unauthorized access by blocking or allowing network traffic based on predefined security rules
- Encryption – converts data into a code that can only be deciphered using a decryption key, ensuring that sensitive information is safe from prying eyes
- Virtual private network – provides a secure connection between remote employees and company resources by encrypting data
- Multifactor authentication – requires employees to provide more than one form of unique authentication factors to ensure that only authorized entities can access the network
- Patch management software – regularly updates software and systems with security patches to prevent cyberattacks that exploit known vulnerabilities
- Mobile device management – provides centralized control over mobile devices and their data, regardless of the device's location or network connection, enabling admins to manage and secure employee-used mobile devices
- Security information and event management – identifies potential threats while providing insights into security incidents by gathering and analyzing data from network devices, applications, and endpoints
Read also: Top ways an MSP strengthens your business’s cybersecurity
Overall, a hybrid workplace requires a robust technology infrastructure that can support remote and in-person work seamlessly, while also ensuring the security of company data. By investing in the aforementioned technologies, you’ll be well positioned to implement an effective and secure hybrid workplace.
If you’d like further assistance with understanding how best to leverage IT properly for hybrid work and drive business success, call XBASE Technologies today. Our team of dedicated IT professionals is always available to help.