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With every new year, technology progresses to make our personal and working lives more efficient, more connected, and more productive. In the office, technology trends are often directed to improve business operations and foster both client and employee satisfaction. Improving these facets of your company can pay large dividends in both the short and long term. Therefore, it’s vital to understand what these trends are and how to implement them.
Here are some of the most important technology trends we’ll see in 2019.
An Increase in Remote Work
With the rise of digital communication tools, opportunities for remote work are on the rise. A recent study found that 70 percent of full-time employees now telecommute at least one day a week. Since 2005, the population of employees working from home at least half of the time has increased by 115%. And most importantly, studies are projecting that over half of the U.S workforce will be remote freelancers by 2027. This is a trend that will continue to grow, especially as more of the Millenial and Gen Z demographics find work.
However, the increasing desire for telecommuting doesn’t negate the importance of your office space. A group of 2018 surveys measured the primary benefits and struggles of a remote worker. 21% of remote workers defined loneliness as the primary hurdle, and another 21% of remote workers defined collaboration and communication issues as their main challenges. Some businesses are combating this by encouraging remote employees to work in the office at least one day a week.
Video Conferencing & Shared Screens Technology
To accommodate the boost in remote workers, technologies have continued to develop around video conferencing and shared screens. Developers are building software packages that allow you to hold video conferences with dozens of team members, collaborate in real time on digital whiteboards, and support others with remote access and screen sharing tools. For full integration, tools like the Microsoft Surface Hub combine these software capabilities with a piece of hardware designed to seamlessly connect with team members and streamline group projects. With large touch screens and an increasing number of collaborative apps to choose from, these kinds of “team computer” products will become more and more prevalent.
Emphasis on Cybersecurity
A number of well-publicized data breaches over the last few years have highlighted the importance of adequate cyber-security. As our world becomes more and more digital, hackers continually seek out new methods of accessing valuable and private data. Cyber-security software aims to thwart these efforts, yet this is a constant battle that requires consistent innovation. This is why businesses of all sizes will be turning more of their attention to security. For those who want to ensure that their digital information remains safe and private, it’s important to stay up-to-date with a comprehensive cyber-security software.
In 2019, important office technology trends will focus on data protection and telecommuting advancements. With more employees shifting to remote work, businesses will look for ways to communicate and share company data in an efficient and safe manner. At EON, we’ll work with you to ensure that all of your office needs are met, giving you the time to stay current with the newest and most vital trends. Contact us today to learn about all of our products and services.
