Hybrid working
Working together everywhere!
Hybrid working defines the continuum of operational collaboration from on-site work to remote work (mobile working or home office), including across teams.
The current status
The coronavirus crisis, among other things, has shown that sustainable working models no longer consist purely of face-to-face work. Many companies were forced to create opportunities for employees to work from home and restrict access to offices. According to a survey by the Munich-based Ifo Institute, almost 73% of the 800 HR managers surveyed want to continue working from home and hybrid working even after the crisis. The high relevance of this topic is primarily due to the opportunities currently offered by technological progress. Many companies already work with cloud systems that allow employees to access databases from any location.
Synchronous communication
- Digital whiteboards
- Instant messaging systems
Asynchronous communication
- Digital bulletin boards
- Communication guidelines
- Coordinating & collaborative project & task management tools
- Wiki (knowledge management)
- Blogs
- Intranet
Digital whiteboards can be used to visualize concepts, ideas and thoughts. Instant messaging systems are used for direct communication between employees and make it possible to exchange relevant information quickly. The digital bulletin board can be used to distribute information and news that is relevant to the entire company. An intranet is particularly suitable for this, as central files can be made available to everyone. Project management tools are one of the most important components of hybrid work in order to coordinate and efficiently organize team collaboration. Blogs can also be used to improve the flow of information within the company. Wikis help to avoid knowledge gaps and ensure efficient knowledge management, especially with asynchronous communication.
Challenge and solution
Challenges
Solutions
Step-by-step introduction
Step 1: Record the status quo and make hybrid working possible
- Check infrastructure: Does every employee have the necessary hardware and software?
- Identify barriers and risks to remote working: Where do obstacles need to be removed?
- Record processes and departments involved
- Identify IT systems and cross-sectional functions
- Observe legal framework conditions: Ensure data protection, data security, occupational health and safety, IT security
Step 2: Promote hybrid working
- Promote ergonomics and social interaction: Give tips, set up fixed appointments, offer events
- Operate knowledge management: set up structured data storage, document and share knowledge and train employees
- Digital project management: choosing the right tool
- Digital orientation of the company: marketing and eCommerce, digital business models & AI
Hybrid working and digitalization must be lived by the company
Opportunities for SMEs
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