Hybrid working

Work together everywhere!

Hybrid work defines the continuum of operational cooperation from face-to-face to remote work (mobile work or home office), including across teams.

Prototypes and demonstrators available
Cross-industry deployment
Suitable for SMEs?

State of play

The COVID-19 crisis showed that future-proof working models no longer consist of face-to-face work. Many companies were forced to create opportunities for homeworking and restrict access to offices. According to a survey carried out by the Munich Ifo Institute, close to 73% the 800 HR managers interviewed continue working from home and hybrid work even after the crisis. The high relevance of this topic stems in particular from the current opportunities offered by technological progress. For example, many companies already work with cloud systems that allow employees to access databases wherever they are located.

Synchronous communication

— Digital whiteboards

— Instant messaging systems

Asynchronous communication

— Digital black boards
— Communication guides
— coordinating & collaborative project & task management tools
— Wiki (knowledge management)
— Blogs
— Intranet

Digital whiteboards can visualise concepts, ideas and thoughts. Instant messaging systems are used for the direct exchange of staff and allow for the rapid exchange of relevant information. The digital black board allows for the distribution of information and news relevant to the whole company. An intranet is particularly suitable for this, as central files can be made available to everyone. Project management tools are one of the main components of the hybrid work to coordinate and make the collaboration of the teams efficient. Blogs can also improve the flow of information within the company. Wikis avoid knowledge gaps and ensure efficient knowledge management, especially in the case of asynchronous communication.

Challenge and solution

Challenges

  • Lack of social interaction
  • Loss of motivation and control
  • Accessibility of staff
  • Overtime/Performance

Solutions

  • Meet ups for informal exchanges: Daily Standup with coffee
  • Weekly team meetings to bring everyone to a stand
  • Regular One to Ones between management and staff
  • Log in and maintain status in team chat
  • Making progress visible: Transparency
  • Use the camera in Webcalls: Gestures and mimics

Gradual introduction

Step 1: Record status quo and make hybrid work possible

  1. Check infrastructure: Does each employee have the necessary hardware and software?
  2. Identify barriers and risks of remote work: Where do stones need to be removed?
  3. Record processes and departments involved
  4. Identify IT systems and cross-cutting functions
  5. Take note of the legal framework: Ensure data protection, data security, OSH, IT security

Step 2: Promote hybrid working

  1. Promote ergonomics and social exchanges: Give tips, set up fixed dates, offer events
  2. Manage knowledge: Set up structured data repository, document knowledge, share knowledge and train staff
  3. Digital Project Management: Select a suitable tool
  4. Digital focus of the company: Marketing and eCommerce, digital business models & AI

Hybrid working and digitalisation needs to be lived by the company

Opportunities for SMEs

Productivity increase

Making the workplace more attractive and more satisfied

Simpler and wider talent sourcing

Sustainability and cost reduction

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