Tech strategies for a digital first workplace

The introduction and evolution of ways of working has seen drastic changes in role requirements, flexible arrangements and how leaders can successfully navigate and manage their teams. The modern workplace is still within the testing phase, discovering how to best harmonise productivity with skills.

These trials and tribulations have introduced new ways of thinking regarding traditional methods and practices. The shift to hybrid working has welcomed limitless opportunities to enrich collaboration and streamline processes. The need for complementary digital tools has never been more pronounced. From harnessing connections beyond the four walls to supporting an organisation’s ecosystem, digital tools have introduced a range of solutions during very trying times. To prosper, employers must keep their finger on the pulse of emerging technologies.

To accelerate these changes, we list the top strategies employers can adapt to build a digital first workplace.

Demystify digital transformation

Digital transformation must be demystified through education and training. With recent boosts to skills and development, following the Australian Federal Budget, employers can leverage these opportunities and ensure that everyone can utilise digital solutions efficiently. Not only does this create a sense of inclusion by having an aligned team, but training and tutorials also ensure that workers are enjoying the fruits of their labour.

According to Adobe’s Future of Time Report, one-third of the work week is spent on unimportant tasks, and the vast majority of enterprise workers (86%) and small business leaders (83%) report that unimportant tasks such as managing files and business documents impedes their ability to do their jobs effectively. As a result, half of them are working more hours than they would prefer. In addition, Microsoft investigated employee technology usage and discovered that the average working week grew by 10% after the transition to remote work.

To make the most of a modern workplace, digital tools must be implemented. Businesses that shy away from digital adoption will be the most at risk of creating a divided environment. Leaders and employers that establish a digital-first mindset will effectively inspire others to unlock endless possibilities and solutions through technology. The best strategy for employers is to demystify digital adaption and any stigmas associated by facilitating skills and training sessions. Through learning, teams can make the most of their digital tools and feel comfortable using them. Eventually, employers will turn to digital pros and thrive in a more productive and unified environment.

Create a one-stop shop

To remedy the issues addressed from hybrid working, companies like Microsoft and Adobe have partnered to create a seamless beginning-to-end process of collaboration with applications including Acrobat Sign. Employers that implement digital signing software will be able to cut corners by creating a one-stop shop for various users to comment, edit and sign documentation, thus speeding up contractual agreements and renewals.

Applications like Acrobat are also Microsoft Teams-friendly. With up to 270 million users active on the platform, the cross-functionality of hosting various applications in a one-stop shop makes it convenient for workers to review and interact with multiple touchpoints of documentation. Employers that implement digital documents will not only improve efficiency but will also create an organised space where anyone can access and align with key information.

Safeguarding your information

Conversations and content can become convoluted through siloed approaches to remote-working communication. The sharing of information has never been more critical. Employers must integrate appropriate and practical solutions to bridge any miscommunication divide. Applications such as Frame.io have announced integration with Microsoft Teams to create an interactive and synchronised reviewal process of work, enriching collaboration, and communication transfer.

Frame.io LiveShare harnesses a platform where multiple parties can share and review information whilst embedding video playback in systems to allow every detail to be captured. Employers that build an inclusive environment that encourages feedback and two-way communication will create a unified workforce. To combat siloed approaches to hybrid environments, employers must integrate digital solutions that allow users to share quickly and efficiently. Creating systems that maximise information sharing, regardless of location, will enrich collaboration in the modern workforce.

With the implementation of hybrid environments within the modern workforce, the priority must exceed unified collaboration and promote confidence with secure sharing of information. With various digital touchpoints, there are notably heightened vulnerabilities and risks associated with the transfer of documents. Applications like Document Cloud squash these fears by ensuring that organisations are using a secure, IT-sanctioned, collaboration cloud service. Implementing secure applications will allow employees to share with care and boost unified collaboration.

Don’t wait till it’s too late

Employers and leaders must keep up to date with emerging technologies to keep up with the rapid acceleration of new processes. Remote working has ushered in a range of optimal moments for businesses to explore and unlock new processes. Harnessing an open mind and encouraging exploration can unlock limitless opportunities, whilst simultaneously driving innovation and creativity.

Employers must step up to the plate and become agents of change by welcoming exploration and training opportunities. By demystifying siloed approaches to digital adaption, employers can ease their team into a unified and efficient approach. Organisations must establish a top-down ripple effect of change and implementation. Creating comprehensive adoption management plans will support the introduction of new technologies. By integrating the latest technology employers will showcase beginning-to-end commitment to streamlining workflows. Leading by example illustrates an environment where innovation and collaboration are encouraged. Discussing the benefits of new technology integration will help organisations to build trust and showcase value addition to the employees. These learnings will create a solid foundation for employees and businesses to embrace new opportunities to maximise productivity in the modern workplace.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/The KonG