Challenges in facilitating remote or hybrid work arrangements
Flexible arrangements have shown to be helpful for employees, and this in turn has been beneficial for businesses. A survey from Ernst and Young showed 73% of respondents agreeing that a mix of onsite and remote work would increase the company’s productivity.
But implementing a hybrid working arrangement is easier said than done. There are key logistical issues to address, such as providing adequate technology for collaboration and communication, allowing for multiple devices to connect to the network. This is especially critical when some employees may prefer working onsite while others might want to work from home.
The same survey also showed 73% of respondents claiming they want better technology in the office such as a faster internet and video conferencing, while 52% said they want companies to upgrade at-home hardware. To complicate things further, some employees may also want to move to “third spaces” such as cafes or coworking spaces to take breaks from home environments.
Businesses can meet these needs by investing in solutions that cater to all these preferences. This means providing good network connectivity solutions as well as devices that allow employees to do their best work in whatever flexible arrangements they prefer. Singtel offers free 5G access on selected XO Plus Plans which allows employees to transmit rich media content including HD 4K video, using low latency. This coupled with attractive offers on mobile phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S22 and Z Flip 4 which are 5G-compatible, can provide massive productivity boosts for employees working in a hybrid arrangement.
5G poised to enable flexible work arrangements
5G technology can radically transform how businesses operate and enhance the productivity of its workforce. Faster download speeds, real-time interactivity and increased network capacity that comes with 5G can allow more employees to connect their devices and make them more efficient in their work. This is especially critical considering the shift from laptops to smart mobile devices at workplaces these days.
Consider for example, the marketing team within an organisation having to work on complex artwork or review rich media files on the go. On a 5G network, they will be able to download this content and review in a fraction of a second. With the aid of a device like the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra phone, they can also use a pen to annotate, mark up changes or even compare different versions or artwork on Samsung 5G Fold or Z Flip Series phones, all on the go.
These solutions also help businesses by enabling seamless communication and collaboration. Take the case of a manufacturing business where an office-based manager has to coordinate the troubleshooting of a machine with a technical specialist on the field. Through video conferencing and Augmented Reality (AR) applications supported over a 5G network, they will be able to communicate in real-time and resolve the issues with clarity. On-site technicians and field workers who are always on the move, will find it more efficient to take notes, join company calls or send instant messages and updates to colleagues using mobile devices.
With borders opening, employees need to stay connected and be updated on the latest pandemic news while overseas. Singtel offers comprehensive and value-for-money business roaming plans. As a leader in 5G connectivity, Singtel also has the highest coverage in over 33 destinations and 46 networks, allowing your employees to enjoy the fast speeds of 5G when travelling.
Balance productivity with security
While equipping employees with tools for remote work can drive productivity, it should not compromise the security of your business data. It is becoming easier for hackers to gain access to corporate networks by compromising employees' devices via phishing scams, botnet attacks and malicious app downloads. In fact, a Cisco study showed that 64 per cent of organisations in Singapore saw a 25 per cent or more jump in cyber threats or alerts since the start of the pandemic.
To help safeguard businesses against these cyber threats, Singtel offers Singtel Shield, a unified cloud security solution that protects all the devices in the network. Its multi-level cloud and endpoint security protects against device vulnerabilities and phishing apps, while the advanced threat intelligence engine ensures that only secured devices can access corporate applications.
To explore more solutions for your business, visit Singtel Business eShop portal.
