Back to work – how businesses can rely on tech to lead the way
Vaccine rollouts and decreasing caseloads of COVID spell good news for businesses. Reopening is inherent, and you can expect to have your employees back to the office soon. Many offices have already opened, and more are looking forward to following suit. But the transition will be challenging once again, just as it was when employees suddenly had to switch to remote work. As a business owner, you can do your bit to make it seamless for your workforce. Luckily, you can rely on technology to lead the way. Let us explain how you can start with a tech-enabled reopening.
Workplace safety
As employees return, safety will be on top of their minds. It should be the number one priority for employers as well. You can implement technology solutions to ensure safety for everyone on the floor. Start with temperature check devices at the entry door. Implement smart scheduling solutions and visitor management applications to prevent crowding in the premises. Automated cameras and smart alarms will keep people from huddling up on the office floor.
Remote collaboration
Even as people return to the office, remote collaboration should continue. Provide them with the tools and apps they need to connect and collaborate. They keep everyone on the same page without requiring them to get together for meetings and interactions. Your team will probably have collaboration tools they are comfortable with. But you may consider upgrading or switching to better ones.
Productivity tools and training
Back-to-work stress is real, and it can take a toll on the productivity and efficiency of your staff. Empowering the team with productivity tools and training is a good way to keep them on track. Device upgrades can be a good idea, although you can train them to keep the existing ones clean and uncluttered. For example, employees can know more about dealing with charging issues with Macbooks here. If people can handle simple IT issues on their own, productivity comes naturally.
Employee engagement
Apart from productivity concerns, employee engagement is another concern for businesses bringing people back to work. You can use technology for employee engagement as well. Gamification apps make an ideal investment as they keep the team connected and giving their best. You can also run online surveys to get feedback and implement improvements to address the problem areas. Virtual events also make a good strategy for engaging the workforce.
Facilities management
Things will be different when you reopen the office this time. Facilities management has to be on top of your comeback checklist. You can deploy technologies such as robots for cleaning, sanitizing, and monitoring the premises. Install touchless entry in elevators and toilets. Go the extra mile by installing voice-enabled technology in dining areas. Small investments can take you a long way and make the premises safe for everyone.
If the idea of reopening and having your team back to work sounds exciting, you are not alone. But you must understand that employee well-being and comfort are your responsibility. Leverage the right technologies and go ahead confidently!
