A digital workspace is also called a virtual workspace. It includes a set of technologies that centralize the management and delivery of applications and desktops. It lets employees work securely from any geographical location by using any device. It provides users with experiences that range across platforms, locations, and device ownership models, allowing them to manage different kinds of resources under one roof. Given below are some essential elements that a digital workspace should have in order to meet the needs of the modern worker.
Security
There have been instances of personal and sensitive data being stolen, which has affected the reputation of well-known brands. Companies which experience data breaches are also open to legal action or fines from authorities. There can also be cyberattacks which can cripple operations for weeks. To avoid these, businesses must invest in the security of their network infrastructures, with tools such as firewalls, multi-factor authentication, and end-to-end encryption.
Two-way communication
Communication which is transmitted properly to all the parties involved results in a workforce that feels valued and appreciated. Employees today want their voices to be heard. It also leads to a well-constructed digital workspace that allows for the free flow and exchange of ideas within an organization. Management should keep employees informed about business initiatives. A digital workspace platform should include top-down and bottom-up communication channels through features like polls and announcements.
Asynchronous communication channels
The lack of real-time communication is becoming increasingly prominent in the workplace. Employees can work remotely without missing out on critical communications happening at the office. Email is the perfect example of an asynchronous communication channel. It allows employees to respond to messages in their own time. Such communication channels give employees the opportunity to create their own work schedule and maintain optimum productivity levels without the pressure of responding to messages in real-time. Asynchronous video tools like Loom or Soapbox can also be used to communicate with teams.
Project management
Companies are leveraging technology to effectively manage all aspects of project management. Digital workspaces reduce the lag time between communications and task updates, providing relevant information to the people that need it most. Business intelligence and key performance indicators are available on digital dashboards, which expedite the speed at which decisions are taken. Project management platforms such as Clarizen and Microsoft projects are extremely popular.
Integrations
Businesses usually have different applications that they need to maintain. These could be a CRM application or an ERP tool. Multiple, disparate digital systems can complicate a company’s technology infrastructure and pose integration challenges. A digital workspace needs integration features to connect applications internally and externally in order to manage an organization’s operations. Tools that integrate and contextualize the right data in the right places build experiences that make users better at their jobs. This integration can happen at different levels.
