Work from Home Tools You Need for Remote Work

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Many workplaces are beginning to implement processes that will enable their employees to work remotely. Considering that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected businesses across the globe, working remotely has become the norm. Below are some essential tools that could help companies to transition smoothly from office-based settings to work-from-home arrangements.

Basic tech tools 

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Technology plays a crucial role in work from home set-ups. As more and more companies require their employees to work remotely, there is an increasing need to ensure access to essential tech tools.

Computers. Computers are essential for working from home. Apart from enabling workers to perform their day-to-day tasks, they also facilitate communications, information exchange, resource retrieval, scheduling, and record keeping. 

Monitors. Large computer monitors are essential for working more efficiently. Home workers need to have plenty of screen real estate to allow for multiple open windows and multitasking. 

Keyboards/mouse. Although laptops have built-in keyboards and trackpads, external keyboards and mice are easier to work with. While the onboard interfaces are fine for quick notes and general browsing, more work-intensive tasks will require dedicated keyboards and mice. 

Communication tools

Working from home opens up a whole new set of challenges. In particular, employees working from home will need access to a reliable communications system to perform their work remotely. They will need to have access to communication-specific tools and equipment to ensure continued productivity and efficiency. The tools listed below should help companies offset some of the drawbacks of working remotely. 

Headsets. These are essential for workers that have to take calls and provide phone support frequently. Headsets make it easy to hear the person on the other end of the line and leave the hands free for other tasks. 

Microphone. A microphone is useful for conference calls. They may also be used for regular person-to-person calls, in which case they could be incorporated into a combination headset and mic unit. 

Chat software. Chat applications have long been essential tools for business communications. With more and more people now working remotely, apps such as Google Hangouts and Slack have become especially useful for keeping team members in contact with each other. 

Conferencing software. Conference software allows team members to hold virtual meetings, which are often a necessary alternative to chats and phone calls. Zoom and Google Meet are among the most popular applications, allowing teams to interact with each other in real-time, just as if they were in the same room. 

HRIS. When working remotely, reporting to the HR department can be a complicated and convoluted process. An HRIS with mobile app capabilities makes the task much more manageable, with self-service features that allow for more efficient communication between team members and HR personnel. 

Project management software. Reviewing project road maps is an essential part of the project management process. Project management software makes collaboration easier between team members, even when working remotely. Tools such as Asana and Wrike provide a centralized location for notifications, communications, and other project requirements. 

Whether due to the Covid-19 pandemic or the evolution of the business sphere, working remotely is seemingly here to stay. With the use of appropriate technology and a bit of adaptation, it may be possible to make the transition toward the remote working model without adversely affecting productivity and performance. 

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