5 tips to facilitate the digital workplace in 2019

When facilitating a flexible digital workplace, you must first of all, build a strong foundation. Build it by using the right mix of platforms, systems and applications. Take into account, each organization is different. Do research to find the appropriate mix ​​for your organization. For example, a formal large organization needs a different mix than an informal SME business. When you have formulated clear ideas and requirements for your business, you are ready to set up the digital workplace. Read how to optimally organize the digital workplace and create adoption in this whitepaper.

In the year 2019, there will be greater focus on a smarter and more automated workplace. The degree to which technology serves man is still ever-increasing. Research from Aruba/HPE indicates that 71% of employees believe that the future workplace should be fully automated. It helps us to be more productive and makes the job more enjoyable. 93% of employees indicate that increasing the use of digital technologies leads to a better digital workplace. It is best to therefore, invest in open and programmable systems. Flexible systems for workplaces are becoming increasingly popular. The greatest benefit being that these systems support innovation and automation. An example of a flexible system is Office 365, a cloud-based system that innovates along with the digital workplace.

A good digital workplace isn’t just determined by the innovative technology that it runs on. A digital workplace must be above all, easily accessible and user-friendly for employees. Artificial Intelligence technology is developing rapidly and makes a positive contribution to the quality of the digital workplace. AI enables employees to be more productive, especially when repetitive tasks need to be done such as completing the time registration, schedules and other paperwork. If we apply this train of thought to Office 365, this means an application such as Outlook, Word or My Analytics proactively supports the user by offering guidance and explanations. The application uses Artificial Intelligence to send supportive information in the form of an introduction, suggestion, tip or video. For example, Outlook itself can propose tasks, such as planning a meeting more efficiently or rescheduling it to a time that suits all participants.

Another component of the smart digital workplace not yet mentioned are the applications. Employees benefit if the applications are adapted to the needs of the organization. A large hierarchical organization needs different applications than a small informal organization. It is important that the tools fit in with the strategic vision. Simply introducing tools without thinking about whether they fit in with the current strategy will not give a successful result. Only tools that fit in with the strategy, are up-to-date and that are mutually cohesive, have a chance at success. A tool for mapping the wishes and needs within your organization is the target group pyramid. This pyramid helps you determine which tools are effective for individuals, teams and the entire organization. Different applications are suitable for each layer in the target group. See the image below for all layers in the target group pyramid and read more about it in this whitepaper.

In previous years, the trends were often focused on optimizing the digital workplace for the different devices. In 2019 we are already working on every device from any location. Applications provide the same experience for all devices and browsers, making it easy to switch from one device to another. However, we try to keep our working and private lives as separate as possible. But what if combining the two makes life more efficient? We are seeing a shift from the digital workplace to modern working life. This means that we will integrate our business and private life more, so that the best work-life benefits come to the fore. For example, we now receive business and private mail on two separate platforms, while integration in one application is more efficient. The business and private agenda will also become more integrated. Microsoft has anticipated this and introduces Teams for home in 2019. This allows employees and their family to easily compare their calendars, manage their shared calendar, upload shared documents and share updates. Many integrations between business and private life will follow to make work life more efficient.

Find out what iWRITER has to offer for the digital workplace in 2019? Request a demo without any obligations.