Slowly but Surely: Preparations for returning to work
Just a couple of months ago the work-from-home framework thrived, it was the only strategy left in the hands of many managements in the beginning of onslaught of the global pandemic to keep their businesses running. To many it was a doable game-plan.
But as beginnings have its own ends, recently the government felt that it is time to return to work. With Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) approved Level 1 in the National Capital Region (NCR) and other regions, eventually our work realities will have to adjust again soon.
Just like how technology changed the way things work pre-COVID, digital transformation had the biggest role in helping businesses grow, improving services and productivity during the pandemic. A survey of Alibaba Cloud in 2020 revealed that with 51% businesses in the Philippines adopted cloud-based IT solutions during the pandemic.
With the unprecedented growth of digital integration, a challenge now is how we can sustain this growth and improvement as we progress back on the way we work before.
How Can Your Organization Transition with Ease
Adapt hybrid set-ups As we are re-opening our physical offices, it is recommended to start slowly and finish strongly by not requiring your full workforce to be on-site. We must keep in mind our country is still included in a global pandemic that has not reached its end yet so, as much as we can we have to maximize and operate efficiently with our resources.
Your organization can avail cloud-based IT products designed for communication, such as Microsoft Teams to have real-time collaboration, anywhere, anytime, and zoom for video conferences.
Change the workplace layout
Do not just elevate their digital tools but also, elevate their work environment. Businesses can opt to arrange their offices in a way that produces good airflow and has natural light. Arrange tables and chairs at least 1 meter apart to avoid congestion and practice social distancing. Place thermal scanners and foot baths in the entrance, also make isopropyl alcohols available and accessible.
Integrate IT solutions
Going back on-site does not mean its 100% safe, the environment is still at high risks. There are solutions available on the market designed for businesses that will aid you as you return to the workplace.
There are Contact Tracing kits which help organizations make sound decisions regarding their people. Such kits are data based, it will let you know if an employee is infected or exposed to COVID. Another return-to-work tool is the Microsoft Power Platform, which includes solutions aimed to empower workplaces to open smoothly and safely. It includes management tools covering your business facilities, locations, and employees. Learn what it can do for your organization.
Be transparent In these tough times, it is good that you allow yourself to open when things get rough. Sometimes isolating and handling things on your own can affect many personal aspects of your life and sometimes, your work. Don’t be afraid to ask your colleagues and friends for help. Do not bear things alone, as you are not alone.
Conclusion: Realize that you’re not alone
Not everybody feels the same towards this matter, some may feel overwhelmed while some may feel the excitement because they can finally see other workmates and go through work physically. Nonetheless, remember that your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health matters. So, while we wait for the further directives of the government, in the coming months prepare yourself too, be transparent to your bosses and co-workers. Let’s transition slowly, but surely.
We can do this together.
What other ways of preparing for getting back to work can you add?