Long Term Strategy for Remote Working

When it comes to creating an effective remote working regime you needs to start with policy, process and then training. All of which should be regularly reviewed and updated if required.

On-boarding of new employees

Sometimes it’s the little things that make all the difference, such as being given access to the right files or even having an email signature automatically created for new employees.
But, more importantly for the business, before an individual is permitted to access company services and data it is essential that remote workers receive role-appropriate training on information security, data protection and general good remote working practices. Using Patronum administrators can create role-specific workflows which will only trigger once training has been undertaken and the individual has read and accepted company policies. Attributes stored within the Google directory can be used to indicate the level of competency an individual has for any given role or skill.

The Patronum Organisational Chart feature gives new employees the ability to locate others within the company who can help or advise them if they have any concerned.

Day-to-day

When working remotely it is of utmost importance that the physical security of the home or place of remote work is taken into consideration. Devices used by remote workers should not be used for personal purposes, by the colleague or their family or friends. When working within a public environment such as a coffee shop or co-working facility consider privacy screen protection so that others cannot see the screen. There are, of course, health and safety considerations to take in. Most modern offices are designed to be ergonomic, to reduce the likelihood of repetitive strain injury. Many homes do not possess a dedicated workstation or office chair. We are aware of some instances where ironing boards at the end of beds have been used as a makeshift desk and chair. Prolonged use of such a setup may cause injury, preventing the colleague from working, and also open the company to health and safety claims.

Patronum can help automatically create and share a health and safety risk assessment document to all colleagues. This can then be undertaken, and regularly reviewed, to ensure an optimal and safe working environment.

Off-boarding of leavers

Your employee exit process should differ for “good” and “bad” leavers. Usually, the only difference will be the time that their ability to access services, accounts or other sensitive data is rescinded.

ie. a bad leaver should have service access rescinded immediately, where a good leaver may work their noticed period.

With Patronum you can create a full and comprehensive deprovisioning policy for all types of employees. It makes sure that all devices, accounts and services are disabled and licenses and retained data are redistributed accordingly within the business.