We all know it - employees want flexibility, and a remote or hybrid work environment is one of the ways employers can provide the work-life balance many are seeking. During a time where obtaining and maintaining quality talent is easier said than done, more and more small and mid-sized businesses are doing what they can to be accommodating. At the same time, managers and employers need to be mindful of their resources and confident that work is getting done effectively and efficiently. So that leaves the question - what is the best way for employers to measure employee effectiveness in a remote environment?
At Premier IT, this is a question we often get from our clients, and we're here to help you navigate the complexities of monitoring your staff's working habits while respecting their rights and privacy.
Let's look at some of the options employers have for monitoring employees who are working in a remote setting:Time tracking software: Employers often use time tracking tools to oversee the hours employees spend on tasks. These tools may include features like clocking in and out, activity tracking, and reporting.
Communication platforms: Many organizations utilize communication platforms, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, to keep hybrid and remote teams collaborating effectively, and employers can gain insights into employees' responsiveness, collaboration, and overall engagement.
Project management tools: Tracking progress on tasks and projects through project management applications allows managers and employers to supervise productivity and employee effectiveness while identifying possible issues that are occurring either in the office, hybrid or remotely.
Productivity software: Some companies may utilize productivity monitoring software that tracks computer activity, such as websites that are visited and applications being used. These tools provide insight into how employees allocate their time during working hours.
Virtual private network (VPN) monitoring: Companies may monitor VPN usage to track when employees are connected to the company's network. This can help ensure employees are working during designated hours.
Employee monitoring software: This type of software enables employers to monitor various aspects of employee work, such as keystrokes, mouse movements, and screenshots.
Live video feed: One of the more extensive methods for monitoring employees' work is by use of a continuous live video feed. Employees are on camera and recorded or supervised as they work.
There are a variety of ways in which employers can gauge and monitor employee work habits and effectiveness in hybrid and remote work settings.
When the IT professionals at Premier IT guide organizations in their best practices for remote work solutions, they often stress the importance of equipping employees with the right tools and establishing clear expectations for success. This way, the focus is on improving outcomes rather than extensive monitoring.
However, as previously highlighted, there are situations where more intrusive monitoring becomes a necessity. Specific roles involving sensitive information and regulatory considerations may require additional controls, including video monitoring, screen recording, and voice recording. While such measures may not be appreciated, understanding their necessity is crucial for maintaining security and compliance. It's about finding the right balance between trust and the specific needs of the role.
Read: 5 Ways to Keep Hybrid Offices Secure
At Premier IT, we work with businesses every day in a hybrid or remote work environment. We understand that every industry, company, and company culture requires a custom approach to ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability in their business.
We can help you determine the appropriate monitoring measures for your staff and organization and overcome technical challenges to ensure the safety and privacy of your business data, networks, and systems. Don't stress how you will achieve this alone; our team of experts is equipped to guide your company through the technological strategies, providing remote work solutions and peace of mind in an era where remote work effectiveness is a priority.
Premier IT is a dedicated IT support team that manages all your technology needs. We pay attention to the details so you can focus on what you do best. We provide technical consulting, hosted infrastructure, computer & network support, security, Microsoft support, repairs, network monitoring and more. If your small business needs reliable technical support, contact our team of experienced technicians and engineers.