As companies are bringing employees back to the workplace, they must consider a variety of issues. There are health and safety concerns, HR matters, logistics, and perhaps new ways to operate your business. In my world as a VCIO, the reopening of offices creates technology challenges and opportunities.
A Case Study
I recently met with a client to discuss a reopening strategy. Like so many others, the company’s employees went to full-time remote work when the pandemic hit. Some of these employees even moved away, far away, from the company’s headquarters. Everyone adjusted, and the company fared pretty well during the pandemic. However, the time has come to reopen the office. To help plan for the reopening, we completed a technology strategy session.
The Strategy
The company made a business decision, from COVID lessons, that the office does not need to be fully staffed all of the time. We discussed a plan for in-person workers to interact seamlessly with remote employees. As part of the plan, we determined the necessary technology for the company to reopen successfully. For example, we looked at video hardware and software, licenses, wireless bandwidth requirements, firewalls and security, VOIP phone systems, and more. Further, we looked at which existing systems need an upgrade and the associated costs. Lastly, we discussed how technology interacts with the company’s physical space. A related topic of discussion was the utilization of desk hoteling shared space requirements.
The Difference
I genuinely believe that the services outlined in this example are what set me apart. Most IT vendors do not understand the operations of your business. Nor do they know how technology is instrumental in reaching your business goals. I am a VCIO – not another vendor. As such, I am a key member of your management team, helping you make critical decisions about people, cash, strategy, execution. So, while you are making plans to reopen your office, call me. I can help identify technology challenges and opportunities during this new beginning.
