The COVID-19 pandemic threw businesses of all sizes into remote work, and this trend has persisted especially for SMBs. Today, 87% of people who have remote or hybrid work options take advantage of them, and it’s predicted that the remote workforce will grow to over 36 million in the US by 2025.
Working from home has its perks, but it also presents unique challenges, particularly with security concerns or disjointed communication between team members. However, by properly utilizing commercial IT support from a managed service provider (MSP), you can overcome these challenges and transform remote work into an asset.
Secure Remote Access
One of the biggest concerns businesses face is how remote teams can access the network without exposing it to hackers. With virtual private networks (VPNs) and cloud management services, remote employees can connect to your network seamlessly and securely.
As an additional safety measure, your commercial IT support company can also set up encryption protocols and other data security measures to protect information at rest and during transfers to off-site servers or parties.
Optimized Collaboration Tools and Communication Platforms
Many tools exist to support collaboration between long-distance team members, such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom. However, these applications are often underutilized because users aren’t aware of their full features or don’t set them up correctly. Professionals in commercial IT support are familiar with these tools and can help you use them most effectively.
IT companies also often offer unified communications as a service (UCaaS), which allows you to coordinate your various communication channels (emailing, video calling, instant messaging, etc.) and ensure they work together seamlessly so team members can stay in touch from anywhere.
Scalability and Flexibility
One of the best parts of remote work is its flexibility, and commercial IT support shares this same advantage. MSP services are designed to be scalable and flexible to keep up with your growing and changing needs. Services are also tailored to your company’s size and growth trajectory, making them a cost-effective option for SMBs.
Cybersecurity and Compliance
With your employees and devices dispersed in multiple locations, it can be hard to maintain tight cybersecurity. Experienced IT techs can use endpoint protection methods like firewalls and access controls to secure remote devices, including personal devices used for work. This will keep your systems safe even when accessed from all over the country.
Similarly, compliance can become an issue when you have to adjust data storage and communication methods for teams working from home. Compliance experts at your commercial IT support company are familiar with common regulations and can ensure your setups are consistent with industry expectations and standards.
Cost Efficiency and Expert Support
Finally, taking advantage of outsourced commercial IT support gives you access to expert resources and insights while remaining cost-effective.
When you hire an external IT team that’s skilled, dedicated, and trustworthy, you can reap all the benefits of personalized IT support without the associated costs of an in-house team (hiring costs, salaries, benefits, ongoing training, etc.).
Upgrade Remote Work with Praxis
If you want to offer hybrid or remote work options to your team but aren’t sure how to navigate the associated technology hiccups, partnering with Praxis is the answer.
You’ll discover proactive, relevant solutions that make your workday seamless and safe, wherever it may be. You’ll experience the best customer service in LA, and you’ll have a commercial IT support partner who is invested in your success. Ready to jump in? Set up a meeting with one of our techs here.
