Planning ahead is good business. Contingency planning is about being a responsible business manager and looking at the best ways to utilize available strategies to keep operations running smoothly in all conditions, including weather-related disruptions and societal issues and concerns.
Are you ready in the event of unforeseen operational disruptions? Take time to review or create your business continuity plan. Though there are many areas to a comprehensive plan, the focus of this article will be on today’s technology that allows for remote-work possibilities. A good plan means you and your employees will be able to telecommute without missing a beat. Here are seven elements a good strategy should include.
1. Remote-Work VPN and Data Access
To keep operations running smoothly, your employees will need access to data. However, you want to protect information. You need a balance. When creating a policy for remote work, include representatives from your IT department or reach out to us. Build a policy of information access and protection into your business continuity plan from the start.
2. Redundant Internet Connections
The internet is important to all areas of business, so having a backup plan is important in case your primary internet service fails. There are multiple benefits.
- Operational continuity
- Reduced data loss
- Guaranteed internet access
For successful telecommuting, whether as a situational reaction or a general policy, companies need redundant internet connections.
3. Power Protection
Successful operations depend on steady supplies of power as well as internet access. All employees, whether working remotely or in the physical office, need adequate power protection for their devices. Work with team managers and your IT resources to develop a policy for choosing, distributing, and using quality power protectors, generators and/or other uninterruptible power supplies.
4. The Right Devices
Computers and other technological devices are excellent tools for getting modern work done, but you need to choose the best appliances for your situation and needs. Can your team members take their work devices off site and continue to work? Work with team managers, HR, and IT to choose the right set of technological tools for your company and employees.
5. Phone Capabilities
Depending upon your employees’ roles, you may need varying equipment.
- Dedicated telephone landline
- Landline telephone
- Telephone headsets
- Video conferencing
- Webcams
Can you forward your incoming business phone number to individual cell phones? Can your team members call from their cell phones but with your company’s caller ID? It is important to have equipment and policies in place before an emergency or sudden situation causes an operational disruption.
6. Team Collaboration Tools
Thanks to technological advancements, there are many effective collaboration tools for remote workers. Frankly, they are great for interoffice communication as well.
- Teams
- Slack
- Zoom
- InVision
There are numerous other applications geared to specialized areas, depending upon your needs. With these platforms, you can keep daily operations running smoothly from your sofa.
7. Cloud Tools
Using the cloud to collect, store, and share data amongst your telecommuting employees can enhance your workflow. There are numerous tools to maximize the cloud’s possibilities for your business.
- Flowdock
- Yammer
- Convo
- Hackpad
- MindMeister
If the cloud is used well with the best combination of tools, you can easily run a virtual office with remote workers.
Be Prepared
Be ready for unexpected interruptions. Palitto Consulting Services can help you build a solid business continuity plan. Whether you want a plan that can be adapted quickly in response to unexpected interruptions or want general flexibility in your company’s concept of the workplace, Palitto Consulting Services can help you create a powerful network to keep your operations flowing. Reach out today if you want to continue the discussion.
