Hybrid IT Support in 2023: Benefits, Challenges, and Best Practices

Updated on: April 27, 2023

As we enter 2023, hybrid work environments are becoming the new norm, blurring the lines between in-office and remote work. To ensure a smooth transition and successful implementation, businesses need reliable and comprehensive hybrid IT support.

At our IT company, we understand the unique challenges and benefits of hybrid work environments. We specialize in providing hybrid IT support, including strategies to optimize productivity, reduce costs, and improve collaboration, as well as addressing potential threats and challenges.

Benefits of Hybrid IT Support

High-quality and speedy IT maintenance;
Increased savings and income;
Ensure business continuity;
Access to experts;

See all benefits of hybrid remote work support.

Threats

Fake Stimulus Phishing

Fake emails are being sent to employees purporting to be from human resource departments requesting documents such as proof of vaccination or booster cards. The email then links targets to a fake sign-in page where cyber-criminals gather username and passwords.

Zoom Bombing

Zoom bombing is when a video conference, usually via Zoom, is “bombed” or hijacked by unwanted insertion of materials such as defamatory signs and obscene materials.

Bandwidth Fluctuation

Bandwidth fluctuation could occur because of poor wireless reception, high internal network load, improper router location/settings, or malware.

Heavier Reliance on End-Point Protection

Remote work may put overemphasis on end-point protection on endpoints such as desktop workstations, laptops, and mobile devices.

Temporary parameters of VPN

A VPN basically provides privacy, security and anonymity by concealing your ISP/online activity from the prying eyes of your internet service provider (ISP), hackers, and even the government. However, the parameters it provides could be temporary.

DNS requests expose internet use

DNS involves querying a public database (the DNS). One might be tempted to assume that there are privacy implications, but the identity of the nodes querying the DNS are not public. However, the amount of information exposed to authoritative servers have the potential to be exposed to eavesdroppers. In order to prevent eavesdropping, DNS transactions should be encrypted and authenticated.

Challenges of Hybrid Environment

Communication and Training

Enabling employees to collaborate as if they were all in one place isn’t easy.

Analytics

It’s hard for leaders to gauge productivity and if hybrid work is actually a profitable venture.

High Costs

When you cobble together your own solutions, it can get both complicated and expensive.

Multiple Portals May Lead to Confusion

As each player brings its own value proposition and fills different gaps, confusion sets in as to which IT functions to prioritize.

Complex Security Requirements

The more varied your ecosystem, the greater your need to manage security complexity. How long would it take you to meet compliance or security operational requirements?

Network Access Issues

In a modern hybrid IT environment, network access is a challenge because business units were conditioned over the years by forces such as regulatory compliance and cybersecurity risks to require increased oversight from IT.

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Hybrid Workplace Best Practices

A successful hybrid workplace is not just about having top-of-the-line technological solutions. It is also about implementing best practices. Here are some of them:

1. Establish Clear Communication Channels

One of the most critical elements of a successful hybrid workplace is clear communication. With employees working in different locations, it’s essential to establish communication channels that everyone can access. This may include regular team meetings, instant messaging apps, or project management software. It’s also essential to set expectations around response times and communication etiquette to avoid any confusion.

2. Prioritize Team Building and Collaboration

Remote work can be isolating, and it’s crucial to prioritize team building and collaboration in a hybrid workplace. This may include regular team-building activities, virtual coffee breaks, or opportunities for cross-functional collaboration. It’s also essential to ensure that remote workers have access to the same resources and tools as in-office employees to avoid any barriers to collaboration.

3. Create a Flexible Work Schedule

One of the key benefits of a hybrid workplace is the flexibility it provides to employees. However, it’s essential to establish clear guidelines around work schedules to ensure that everyone is on the same page. This may include establishing core working hours, setting expectations around availability, and allowing for flexible scheduling arrangements where possible.

4. Provide Support and Training for Remote Workers

Remote work requires a unique set of skills and practices that not all employees may be familiar with. It’s essential to provide support and training for remote workers to ensure that they have the resources and knowledge they need to be successful. This may include training on communication tools, time management, and remote work best practices.

5. Foster a Culture of Trust and Accountability

Finally, it’s crucial to foster a culture of trust and accountability in a hybrid workplace. With employees working in different locations and on different schedules, it’s essential to establish clear expectations and guidelines around performance and accountability. This may include regular check-ins, goal setting, and clear metrics for success.

Documentation

What is a cloud? We hear the term used in conversations every day. It is a popular discussion in every industry from IT to telecom to consumer goods brands. What does cloud mean for organizations?

Is the cloud right for you? There are many kinds of cloud computing systems and providers. While it brings advantages, some systems may also not be right for every company. At Troinet, we help you decide what cloud system works for you through expert assessment.

How to prepare your organization. Shifting to the cloud or hybrid IT is not an overnight thing. It takes gradual yet strategic preparation of the entire organization. Cloud consideration includes groundwork, facility and financial preparation.

Work with Us For Your Hybrid IT Needs

At Troinet, we’re the only technology company that offers a single platform that will help better support the way your employees need and want to work.

Avoid Complexity

Everything is fully-baked, so you won’t need multiple vendors or products.

Zero Learning Curve

Employees get a single log-in, plus onboarding and administration are simple.

Customized to You

We’ll be able to tailor our platform to the way you want to do business.

Industry Experience

Our teams have experience with industries most affected by the pandemic.

Implementing a successful hybrid workplace requires careful planning, clear communication, and a focus on team building and technology. By following these best practices, companies can create a flexible, productive, and engaged workforce that can thrive in a post-pandemic world.

Don’t let the complexities of hybrid work environments overwhelm you. Let us help you navigate the transition and provide the hybrid IT support you need for your business to thrive. Contact us today and call 718-761-2780 to learn more.

by Wayne Roye

Microsoft Strategic Consultant

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