Key tips to consider when transitioning teams from in-house to remote work: Company Culture, Processes, Technology, and Employees. Are your workers cut out for remote work full-time? Do you have the processes and technology that will support this?
Company Culture
Developing a solid company culture is critical in keeping the workforce motivated, involved, and eager. Remote working can often lead to a since of isolation from the rest of the “team”. Hosting remote game parties, social meetings, and even creating teams of diverse employees to work simple projects can keep employees feeling involved and excited!
Company Processes
Company processes often must be evolved to accommodate remote working. Business Process Improvements (BPIs) should be conducted frequently leveraging Business Process Analysis to determine if processes are still compatible with a remote workforce. How can these processes be adapted to fit your new environment?
Technology
Technology is arguably one of the most important aspects of a remote workforce. Team members must be able to interact with each other, securely connect to company resources, and keep track of their work. Project Management & collaboration tools are great for keeping teams focused on common goals and allows management to track progress. “The key to a successful remote team is giving members the right tools to do their jobs effectively and efficiently.” [1]
Employees
Another key item to the success of remote working, are the employees themselves. Some users are just not cut out to work remotely, or may have circumstances that prevent them from being able to do so efficiently. This must be taken into consideration when selecting the talent that will be working remote. Companies that are transitioning solely to a remote working concept may have to make difficult decisions when restructuring.
Transitioning to a remote working model can work within many organizations, while others may require in-house teams due to the nature of their business. If your company is fortunate enough to be able to accommodate remote working, and plans to do so long term; please consider the culture, processes, technology and talent required to make this successful.
Sources
- [1] 4 things to consider when transitioning teams from in-house to remote – techrepublic.com