Upgrading Computer Equipment To Meet The Needs Of Hybrid Workers

Millions of workers worldwide are currently working from home, and it has been estimated that 40% of workers in the EU began to telework full-time in the last year. In the US, a survey by Harvard Business School found that the majority of large companies and almost half of smaller businesses have switched to at least some remote work.

Although for many companies, teleworking has improved efficiency, employees still face many challenges working from home. As businesses adapt, demand for computer hardware and accessories such as keyboards and printers has soared. Providing all workers with access to the appropriate equipment can help to ensure they are comfortable working away from the office, and that productivity is maximized.

Providing Office Equipment For Teleworkers

Despite a huge increase in the number of people working from home, over a third of employees interviewed in the UK claimed to have not been provided with a computer for work. As working remotely is still very new, companies need to develop equipment policies to ensure that all workers are provided with computers and related peripheral equipment such as headsets and printers. Although teleworking has accelerated the digitization of many businesses, a photo printer in the home office is still a necessity for many workers. Plenty of jobs still involve creating hard copies of reports and presentations, and in some cases, printed documents are a legal requirement.

Updating Processes To Improve Productivity

Without updated equipment and processes, many workers are struggling to maintain an adequate level of efficiency while working from home. A survey of American home workers found that more than three quarters of them are struggling with outdated technology. As well as ensuring that suitable equipment is provided to all workers, streamlining remote access to video conferencing facilities and office resources such as HR and payroll is also essential. This can help employees working at home to minimize data errors, prevent security risks and avoid duplicating work unnecessarily.

Increasing Safety Of Shared Computer Equipment

As more workers return to hybrid working in shared offices, all technology and equipment will need to be kept clean and hygienic in order to protect the health and safety of employees. Research has revealed that computer mice and keyboards are particularly prone to bacteria, which should be regularly removed with antibacterial cleaner. Some keyboards come with an antimicrobial coating of nano silver particles, which destroys bacteria when it comes into contact with the surface, and when fully sealed, medical grade keyboards can even be placed in the dishwasher. Fully washable and waterproof equipment is durable and much easier to keep clean, minimizing cross-contamination between different users.

Millions of workers worldwide are currently working from home at least some of the time. Although many companies have found that in many cases productivity is improved, workers have still faced problems with obtaining and updating the technology that they require in their new home offices. Successful businesses are meeting the needs of their teleworkers by providing appropriate equipment and adequate IT support, helping them to maintain safety and efficiency wherever they are working.