Make sure the trust’s still there with mobile workers
In any business, allowing employees to work remotely and on a mobile basis can bring a wide range of mutual benefits. From a company point of view, this system of working allows individuals to remain productive in a variety of locations, and downtime is generally kept to an absolute minimum. On a personal level, this flexibility can make a refreshing change in comparison to being tied to a desk, but managers and directors can be forgiven for being concerned about a lack of available monitoring. There will always be a level of trust involved when workers cannot physically be seen, and there are a number of established IT solutions that empower business leaders to maintain control of a mobile or remote workforce.
Staying in touch is essential for any productive business relationship but do not limit yourself to phone calls, use the video capabilities of apps such as Skype, FaceTime and Lync. Most laptops and tablet computers include a webcam and video is great for conference calls with your staff, suppliers and customers; and this can also give you the confidence that your mobile workforce is productive and where they agreed to be. Many new notebook and tablet computers include GPS location awareness which can allow you to track its whereabouts.
If employee smartphone usage is also a concern, the presence of a monitoring app can be included in standard employment terms. Monitoring apps are available for all of the major smartphone operating systems, and they can be configured to provide a wide range of information at regular intervals. The precise location of each individual handset can be pinpointed in real time, and more sophisticated apps can also upload a detailed log of text messages, phone calls, and other business-sensitive interactions.
If your business could use some help with getting started with a mobile workforce, give us a call on 01494 857572 or via our contact form. Our professional staff with proven track records in first class IT support and customer service will be delighted to discuss your options.
