Not having a digital workplace strategy in 2023 can result in your business lagging behind the competition. While most companies use digital tools in their workplaces, numerous organizations neglect to implement a digital workplace strategy that effectively meets their business requirements and enhances internal processes.
A digital workplace is an ecosystem of digital tools that companies use internally to increase productivity. These tools come in a variety of forms. If done right, these tools enhance collaboration, communication, and productivity among team members, no matter where they are located.
Digital Workplace Strategy Benefits
Proper implementation of a digital workplace strategy can provide numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes. Here are some of the most notable benefits:
Speeds up Work
A digital workplace can significantly speed up work processes. When employees have access to digital tools and platforms, they can collaborate and complete tasks more efficiently. Employees can’t afford to waste time or take too long with certain tasks. Getting tasks accomplished faster will give your company a major edge over competitors.
Organize Information Overload
Digital workplace tools, like a company intranet also allow for better organization of data and information. When everything is in one place, it is easier for employees to find the information they need. This can help reduce stress and increase productivity, leading to a more positive work environment.
Build Remote Workforce, Reduce Costs
With the rise of remote work, companies must adapt to keep up with the times. Research indicates that a significant number of individuals prioritize the option of remote work over other factors, such as salary. A digital workplace can help build a remote workforce, which can reduce costs associated with office space and overhead. Additionally, remote work can lead to happier, more engaged employees, resulting in higher productivity.
Employee Engagement
Employee engagement is critical for business success. With the right communication plan, employees will feel a sense of belonging as opposed to simply working a job. This can lead to a more positive work environment and a better overall company culture.
Employee Retention
When employees feel engaged and valued, they are more likely to stay with a company long-term. A Digital workplace can help retain employees by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Better Onboarding
New employees can often feel overwhelmed and stressed when starting a new job. There are digital workplace tools that can help streamline the onboarding process. Making the process simple and stress-free so new hires can get off on the right foot.
Win War on Talent
Creating a positive working environment will greatly expand your company’s reach in the talent pool. Having a solid engagement strategy and different working options will help attract the most skilled workers. This can help create a pipeline of top talent that is excited to be a part of your organization.
Compliance and Audit Ready
Digital workplace tools can help companies stay compliant with regulations and audits. By keeping all data and information in one place, it is easier to ensure that all necessary protocols are being followed.
Digital Workplace Software
There are several digital workplace software options on the market today, each with its unique features and benefits. When choosing digital workplace software, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your company.
Of course, everyone’s aware of workplace tools like Zoom, Sharepoint and SalesForce. However, digital workplace software nowadays goes way beyond these basic tools.
Digital Intranet
A digital intranet is a private network that is used exclusively by employees of an organization. It enables employees to share files, collaborate on projects, and communicate with each other in a secure environment. Digital intranets have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide a centralized platform for information sharing and collaboration.
When used the right way, a company intranet can prove to be greatly beneficial to organizations. It helps engage individual employees using their preferred method, collaborate with other teams and offer encouragement to jobs well done.
Company Instant Messaging
Instant messaging (IM) platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams have become essential for modern businesses. IM software allows for more efficient communication between employees and collaboration on projects. They also allow for quick and efficient communication, reducing the need for lengthy email chains.
Project and Task Management Software
Project and task management software like Asana, Trello, and Jira enable teams to manage projects and tasks more efficiently. These tools provide a centralized platform for managing tasks, deadlines, and progress, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Digital Workplace Strategy
An effective digital workplace strategy involves utilizing the right combination of digital workplace software to achieve your business objectives. When you implement a solid strategy, it should accomplish the following:
Easy to Teach
Your internal digital strategy should be easily teachable to staff once implemented. No company needs added work and stress. The combination of digital tools should make sense to your company’s unique needs. Not only should it be easy for current staff to learn, but also for new hires.
Doesn’t Put Strain on IT Departments
Often the IT department is tasked with setting up some kind of internal communications system. Some internal digital products put great strain on internal staff to set up and teach. A good digital workplace strategy should result in less time spent on development and more time spent on growing the business.
Easy to Add and Change
As a company grows, so do its requirements. Some software is difficult to upgrade, which will result in staff taking weeks to implement new changes. When implementing a digital service or product, you must think about the long term. You should be thinking about how easy it will be to scale these services in the future.
Improves Efficiency
Finally, an effective digital workplace strategy can help businesses improve efficiency. By streamlining communication and collaboration, businesses can reduce the time and resources needed to complete tasks, enabling them to take on more work and drive growth.
