Remote working requires right technology

Written by Louise Tate

Companies which deploy the correct technology can allow their workers to effectively operate out of the office, an expert has suggested.

Nigel Hawthorn, vice president of European, Middle Eastern and African marketing at Blue Coat Systems, commented: "Knowledge workers usually can work remotely - companies need to ensure that they have the safeguards and network performance available to remote users."

The expert said that use of technologies such as desktop Wide Area Network optimisation and desktop filtering will allow businesses to let their employees work remotely in an effective and secure manner.

He added that remote working IT projects can usefully be implemented easily by companies, unlike more difficult developments such as establishing a data centre.

However, Mr Hawthorn noted that while remote working is seen as common in some sectors, it may not be a practical option for firms in certain industries.

Senior technology consultant at Sophos Graham Cluley recently suggested by not allocating enough resources to IT, businesses are causing technology professionals being overworked.