SURVEY SAYS

The switch to remote work is fine with half of workers queried, with many feeling as productive away from the office.

Remote work culture, automation adoption and cybersecurity protection are key factors in ensuring business continuity and resilience amid the latest outbreak, say leading tech firms.

“Companies are advised to revisit their processes to ensure success and productivity in handling the fresh wave of the pandemic,” said Ichiro Hara, managing director of ABeam Consulting Thailand, a local operating unit of the Japanese firm that specialises in assisting businesses in digital transformation.

According to ABeam’s survey, permanent remote work policies increased the mood of employees, with 50% of them saying they felt more productive, 32% feeling they have the same level of productivity and the rest feeling less productive.

Based on the survey of preferences, the best model for remote work is 2-3 days a week. The allocation of staff working from home needs be done by quota, with effective processes and systems backing up the work.

Mr Hara said another factor is process automation, which could potentially boost efficiency, reduce workload and minimise bureaucratic processes.

Cybersecurity protection is also essential. Companies, apart from ensuring strong security at offices, need to do so with staff working at alternative working sites. He said remote infrastructure is vital and can facilitate the first two factors.

“We estimate 20% of Thai companies have a policy that allows employees to work from home permanently to protect their employees from infection,” said Pirata Phakdeesattayaphong, consulting partner of PwC Thailand, a professional services firm. “This move could reduce some operating costs,

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But working from home for an extended period of time can be stressful, causing employees to struggle to find their work-life balance. PIRATA PHAKDEESATTAYAPHONG Consulting partner, PwC Thailand

such as office rent, utility bills and maintenance expenses.”

But she cautioned working from home for an extended period of time can be stressful, causing employees to struggle to find their work-life balance. Most people prefer working from home at least two days a week, said Ms Pirata.

Amit Midha, president for AsiaPacific & Japan at Dell Technologies, said Dell aims to ensure at least 50% of its workforce will be able to work remotely, supporting flexibility, innovation, opportunity and sustainability. Technological readiness, leadership and resilient culture are keys to helping employees do their best work, he said.

Dell Technologies is scaling its infrastructure to ensure business continuity and availability while employing a variety of tools for online collaboration, attending virtual meetings and serving customers, said Mr Midha.

“Work is outcome-based, not anchored to a specific place or time,” he said.