It’s now clear that for the software industry, even more than for most, hybrid working is here to stay. Remote working is set to become an integral and organic part of the ecosystem, with some companies going entirely remote because of the advantages it brings.
Advantages Of Remote Working
Flexibility
The freedom to work at any time is a huge advantage of remote working, and more and more employees now consider some degree of flexibility a must-have. In the current talent drought, software companies can’t afford not to pay attention.
Autonomy
Software professionals don’t tend to enjoy being micromanaged. With no manager hovering around their workspace, remote workers enjoy a lot more independence and freedom. Leaders have to trust them to get on with it, which means they’re free to unlock their creative potential and put their own ideas into action.
Productivity
Working from home makes people more productive. Far from sneakily cutting down their working hours, remote workers tend to put in overtime, partly because they’re not wasting time and energy on their commute.
Work From Anywhere
Organisations that go remote can hire employees from anywhere in the country – or even anywhere in the world. Again, this is a huge advantage in the current talent drought, enabling companies to tap into massive pools of skilled talent and to diversify their workforce.
Tech at the forefront
A completely digital way of working requires companies to invest in sophisticated tech, which is perfect for software professionals.
But despite all the advantages of going remote, it can backfire if you’re not properly prepared. There are three essential steps you need to implement for a successful transition to remote working.
1. Tools For Collaboration
When face-to-face contact is out of the picture, you need the right collaboration tools and project management tools to enable employees to work together as efficiently as if they were sitting in the same office.
2. Cybersecurity
Hackers have been thrilled with the switch to remote working because it makes employees extremely vulnerable to cyberattacks. When those employees are software professionals, it’s even more vital to implement strong cybersecurity, or you risk a costly and embarrassing data breach.
3. Tools For Communication
Communication is a challenge for home workers, and tools to make it easier will save a lot of time and confusion, not to mention a lot of >>>>-filled email threads. A top-notch communication platform will also nurture professional and emotional connections between members of a remote team.