Telework Exchange

Having a plan does not necessarily translate into getting results. A recent study, conducted by Telework Exchange and Intel, revealed that while 81 percent of government and industry IT decision makers have written business continuity plans, both sectors have been hampered by difficult implementation issues. Further, the majority indicate they do not believe their current employees are able to work remotely in the event of an emergency.

The study, "Mobilizing Against Pandemic," depicted a grim prognosis for business continuity planning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 40 percent of the workforce will take sick days during this year's extended flu season. However, when asked what percentage of employees would be prepared to work remotely if their primary business location was shut down tomorrow, 60 percent of public-sector and 45 percent of private-sector IT decision makers said their workforce could not continue with their work from a remote location.

Fortunately, there is a prescription for what ails these organizations. The study outlines five simple steps decision makers can take to support a mobile workforce in preparation for a pandemic:

• Step 1: Education – Engage Management
• Step 2: Social Distancing – Utilize Remote Access
• Step 3: Empower – Provide Mobile Equipment
• Step 4: Vaccinate – Lock Down Mobile Security
• Step 5: House Calls – Establish Mobile Support Systems

The study found that it is not only crucial to take these steps in the event of a pandemic or other emergency situation, but that mainstream mobility demands also are driving organizations to empower the remote workforce. With the increased demand for telework, 84 percent of respondents believe the need for mobility in their organization has increased during the past year. Further, in the next three years public- and private-sector IT decision makers expect telework to increase by 65 percent and 33 percent, respectively.

The "Mobilizing Against Pandemic" study is based on a survey of 301 public- and private-sector IT decision makers. Readers who are interested in learning more about the survey findings and recommendations can view the full report at www.teleworkexchange.com/mobilizingagainstpandemic.