8 Tools To Power Your Remote Business

The remote working model emerged in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it has gradually become a prevalent operations model for modern businesses.

There are several advantages to working from home. It allows people to save money on transportation costs. Employees can also strike a better work-life balance because they are less mobile. Remote work enables businesses to hire employees from different time zones and locations. Furthermore, it gives your teams more autonomy or flexibility.

However, there are some disadvantages to working from home. Firstly, it's difficult for teams or colleagues to form strong working relationships when working from home. It's also more difficult to collaborate on certain projects. However, several technologies have been developed to streamline remote work. That said, here's a list of some tools you may need to power your remote business. 

#1.File Sharing Tools

You and your team will need to share a lot of information. Fortunately, file-sharing tools can make it easier for you to share files with your team. Investing in cloud-based solutions is best because they make data easily accessible. Furthermore, cloud-based systems typically include advanced security features that enable secure file sharing.

It would be best to look for a system that enables people to share, store, and retrieve relevant data easily. Your cloud file-sharing platform should be accessible to all departments, enabling greater enterprise integration. However, you must implement access controls to ensure that people only have access to data relevant to their jobs. In addition, consider investing in cloud-based online fax solutions to streamline your document management process. 

#2.Productivity Or Collaboration Tools

While remote work gives people autonomy, it makes tracking employee productivity difficult for employers. You may have employees who deliver consistently and do not require supervision. Nevertheless, you must still have a system to track productivity for performance evaluations and appraisals.

Employees may also need help maintaining focus at home because of numerous distractions. This is especially true when they have children around. That is why you must invest in business productivity and collaboration tools. 

#3.Communication Tools

Establishing effective communication channels is one of the remote businesses' most common challenges.

Communication is critical to the success of any business. But with remote business, your employees may find it challenging to communicate frequently because of a lack of physical presence. Some ideas are best-communicated face-to-face rather than via email or text, and vice versa. Sharing information through video conferences is often the best, but it may not be ideal for sharing complex or sensitive information.

However, you can use specific tools designed to facilitate employee communication. Employees can communicate both formally and casually using these communication tools. While work is supposed to be formal, employees should be allowed to engage in casual conversations. It may enable them to develop stronger ties together. Create a 'water cooler' chat where people can discuss random topics. Note that there are quite a few options for communication tools available on the market. So, you have to pick the right one for you. 

#4.Project Management Tools

You can only accomplish so much with task lists on paper or on your phone. Keeping track of project timelines can be challenging, primarily if you work on multiple projects simultaneously.

Most projects have time constraints. As a result, keeping track of your deadlines and performance targets is critical. It is where project management software can come in handy. There are several options available. However, choose the one that you believe will best meet the needs of your team. You could also consult with project managers to determine the best solution. 

#5.Video Conferencing Tools

You can use video conferencing to host virtual meetings and conduct online interviews. They're helpful because they allow you to interact virtually with your team.

In a remote work environment, managers often communicate with their subordinates via e-mail or other communication tools. But events like meetings work better when you can see the people in attendance. It allows the presenter to engage everyone in the meeting. It also prompts people in attendance to participate more freely. Video conferencing doesn't completely replace face-to-face interaction, but it does a great job of filling the void created by a lack of physical interaction. 

#6.Work/Life Balance Tools 

These tools are not directly related to work. They are, however, a worthwhile investment because they will aid your remote employees in achieving a good work/life balance.

Understand that employees also have other responsibilities. Your employees' personal lives can impact their productivity at work. It's in your best interest to keep an eye on their well-being. So, you must find ways to support them and assist them in achieving life balance.

Consider investing in apps or programs that ensure your employees get enough sleep, exercise, and social interaction. These are tasks that they could complete on their own. However, giving them the opportunity to use these applications or services can make a difference, particularly for recruits who are still adjusting to hectic work schedules. 

#7.Screen Sharing Software

Rather than relying solely on audio or video calls, screen sharing allows you to illustrate something in real time. Instead of telling people what to do, you can show them how to do it by sharing your screen.

This tool is particularly useful when training staff or explaining something to your team. This feature is built into some communication and video conferencing tools. However, there are solutions designed specifically for this purpose that are worth considering because they have more functionality. 

#8.Time Management Tools

Productivity is inextricably linked to time management. To be productive, remote employees must be very good at time management. It's in their best interest to manage their time effectively because low productivity levels could lead to missed deadlines and poor-quality work. Time management is critical if you are paid by the hour. Such businesses may use activity trackers to monitor how well you use your time. Nonetheless, investing in time management tools may be a good idea.

Wrapping up

Remote work is one trend that's not going away anytime soon. More businesses will likely be able to shift toward remote work models as the world becomes more digitalized. Not all industries can easily transition to remote work, but most service-based businesses will make the change. Fortunately, several tools are being developed to help with remote work. Consider using the above guide as a starting point when looking for tools to equip your business. You should be aware that you will have several options. Ensure that you purchase the tools that will meet your specific requirements.