Tech Has Changed How We Collaborate Remotely

There was once a time when working remotely was a sort of luxury; the technology, while it existed, wasn’t something that was entirely mainstream. Now that it’s becoming the norm, we’re seeing more companies offering work-from-home options—which is actually a pretty good deal for both the worker and employer, as it reduces overhead and gives the employees a boost in productivity. This technology shift has changed the way we work on a collaborative level, and it’s a win-win situation for all involved.

Research suggests that workers without workplace flexibility would be willing to make substantial trade-offs to have access to telecommuting and/or flex hour programs; they were more satisfied and productive in the workplace when they have flexibility and control.

Inc. Magazine found that remote workers tend to be about 10 percent less productive than their in-office colleagues when they perform repetitive work.

That said productivity soars when telecommuters are performing creative tasks. Remote workers are about 20 percent more productive when they get to think outside the box.

Prior to Internet communications, places of business had standard working hours, usually 9-5. The once normal eight-hour workday has morphed into an “always on, always ready” day, so much that if businesses haven’t gotten on board with modern communications, they’re not likely to stay relevant to compete.

We can thank technologies like VoIP and UC for the options of where and how we work.

Smooth integration with e-mail programs or applications allows users to do more things in more ways than before. The mobile workforce can stay connected to their home offices, making it seem as if they never left their physical desks. Messaging has become more efficient, and portability has never been easier. It’s easy to make extended international or interstate calls without incurring huge call costs. Sharing files, keeping track of large client lists, accessing call information and history – these are much simpler than they used to be.

The Web and VoIP have simplified the overall conferencing process, as these technologies have shaped connectivity by reducing the sense of distance. Video conferencing is now extremely affordable and employees working with remote partners or clients from a distance can work more closely than ever before.

As telecommunications become more refined, perfected and evolved, so too, does work collaboration, no matter the location. 

Edited by Maurice Nagle