What is your Company's Work from Home Plan?

As the coronavirus in the UK moves into the ‘delay’ phase we are aware of the impact this virus could have on where, when and how we work.

We are being cautioned that large public gatherings may be suspended soon and UK business owners may find themselves in the situation where employees will have to work remotely.

Is your business ready?  How do you prepare for this likelihood?  What procedures should be in place to maximise productivity?  How do you recommend employees ‘structure’ their working day and manage distractions?

Some steps you could consider as a business: –

1. Acknowledgment
   Plan HOW your workers will work remotely.  For example, does everyone have a laptop?  Can desktop computers be removed from the office?  Are there data-security issues you need to consider?  And if so, how can you address them?
2. Summary of Jobs/Tasks
   Can ALL jobs be carried out remotely?  What jobs/tasks may pose difficult?
3. Communication Channels
   Your remote working communication channels should be outlined to all members of staff.  For example, your main communication might be via email (as an example).  Outline how staff are expected to respond to customer requests and how to clarify expectations of the level of service.
   Microsoft’s Teams platform might be an option you want to consider.  Part of Office 365, Teams’ free version supports up to 300 participants and offers guest access, one-to-one, and group video/audio calls, as well as file/screen-sharing and online documentation collaboration.

What is clear is that business owners should make contingency plans right now, whether they require to be actioned.  At best, businesses are prepared for any future eventualities that may arise and your business has an appropriate ‘flexible working disaster response plan’.