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When working from home, certain telecommuting equipment can be regarded as essential, with examples including a computer and a smartphone. Yet, if you are going to be working from home regularly, or if you have more complex requirements, you may need to invest in some more advanced telecommuting equipment, which can help you to do your job more effectively, or improve the remote working experience.
Read on to find out more about advanced equipment and its various uses.
If you take a moment to think about telecommuting equipment, chances are you think about the basics, like a laptop or desktop computer, headphones, a microphone and a webcam. Yet, work tasks can differ significantly from one job to another, as can individual habits. On top of this, you may need different equipment to work from home on a regular basis than you would if you were only going to be working from home on rare occasions, or as a last resort.
Regardless of whether it is intended to make working from home easier, to improve the quality of your work, to enable you to carry out more complex tasks, or simply to make you feel more comfortable, you may require more advanced telecommuting equipment. In this article, we explore some of the best options for taking remote work to the next level.
For the majority of job roles, it is possible to work from home using a single screen. However, there are benefits associated with using a dual-screen setup, including the ability to multi-task more effectively. For instance, when you have a second screen, you can view two applications at the same time, without needing to switch between them.
This can pay dividends in terms of productivity and can also make it easier to make side-by-side comparisons. Your second screen may be a second computer monitor – and this is often the preferred option – but you could equally deploy a tablet as your second screen and use it to perform supplementary tasks, such as calculations.
One potential alternative here, and a concept growing in popularity all the time, is the use of ultra-wide monitors and the advantages and disadvantages of this, when compared to dual-screen setups, has been the subject of some considerable debate recently, with ultra-wide screens removing the ‘bezel gap’ associated with two monitors. When you pair this with a screen-splitting software solution, like ViewSplit, it provides the same benefits.
In organizations with a large number of employees, or in job roles where collaboration and delegation of tasks is of the utmost importance, it can be useful or even essential to have some form of project management, task planning or productivity software. This will then allow you to organize work tasks, create work plans and manage larger projects.
Often, the chief benefit of a project management system is the provision of a project hub, where communication can be centralized, allowing all members of a team to sing from the same hymn sheet, even when working independently.
The precise project management system or productivity software you opt for will depend on the nature of your work, the demands associated with managing your tasks or projects, and the types of applications you may need it to integrate with. For example, the Microsoft Planner package can be effective for organizing teamwork in a visual way and might be an ideal option if you already use other elements of the Microsoft Office 365 platform.
Put simply, digital whiteboarding solutions are software solutions, which recreate the functions associated with the digital whiteboards you might see in classroom or training environments, or in office meeting rooms. When faced with the challenge of how to work from home as effectively as you do in an office, they may just hold the key.
One of the major challenges associated with a switch to remote working is learning how to give presentations with the same effectiveness you would have in-person, as an article from Fortune points out. Nonetheless, with the right telecommuting equipment and a digital whiteboarding solution, this is an obstacle that can be overcome.
It is also worth noting that digital whiteboarding solutions like myViewBoard can hugely improve remote collaboration efforts, because the screen can be shared between different remote workers, with real-time annotations added. With that being said, a touch screen will be required, and the larger the screen, the better.
The basic equipment for working from home, such as a laptop and a smartphone, may be sufficient for some workers, but many will have more complex needs. Advanced monitor set-ups, digital whiteboarding solutions, and project management software are just a few examples of more advanced telecommuting equipment that may be useful.
Within the broader category of distance learning are a variety of distance education types. Crucially, these different approaches, models, or delivery methods can result in substantially different learning experiences. Each type has its own plus points, downsides, advocates, and detractors. Often, distance learning courses will also make use of a combination of different types, accommodating as many different needs as possible.
Read on to gain a better understanding of the main distance education types.
When exploring the concept of distance education, you are likely to read about a number of different distance education types and some of these terms can be confusing. Yet, once you understand what the different terms are and what they actually mean, it becomes easier to understand how different approaches compare.
Here, we break down distance education types, looking at delivery methods, pacing models and modes of delivery.
Delivery methods refer to the broad way in which distance education classes or courses are actually carried out. At present, there are two main delivery methods, which are outlined below, although there can be some cross-over.
The expansion of high-speed internet and the rise of digital technology, including video conferencing software, has helped to make online delivery the primary delivery method for modern distance learning. Essentially, this refers to distance learning that is primarily or exclusively carried out over the internet. There is evidence to show that this method of delivery is actually growing at the expense of more traditional in-person classes too.
Recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that while overall student enrollment declines, enrollment in exclusively online courses has grown, highlighting this shift. In fact, the online approach is so widespread that terms like e-learning are sometimes thought of as being synonymous with distance learning.
The main alternative to the online delivery method, correspondence courses tend to be carried out using more traditional methods, such as sending teaching materials, assignments, and examinations through the mail. This was the method that gave birth to the entire concept of distance education. Although it is now sometimes considered to be archaic, it is still in use by some academic institutions, including certain colleges and universities.
Although the use of traditional mail and other traditional methods can make correspondence distance learning a slower process than modern online alternatives, it does provide opportunities to access education, even without a reliable high-speed internet connection. This helps to make distance learning available to a greater number of people.
Pacing models describe the way in which distance learning is controlled. This means how quickly courses are completed and when students are able to progress. When it comes to pacing, the two main models are:
Paced distance learning refers to an approach where the speed of progression is controlled by the school, college, university, or provider so that all participating students complete the work at about the same time. This will typically mean that students have a clear start and end date for courses and even the individual modules within those courses. Similarly, deadlines for assignments and the timing of exams will be the same across the board.
The paced approach is favored by many teachers and academic institutions because it allows them to plan lessons, create a clear structure, and keep the learning group progressing at roughly the same speed. This then makes it easier for collaboration to occur, although setting the right pace to suit everyone can be challenging.
By contrast, the self-paced model of distance education works by providing learners with a greater amount of freedom to decide how quickly they progress. Effectively, this means the speed at which a student completes lessons or a course will depend on how much time they are willing and able to invest in their studies and their own level of ability. Therefore, for instance, someone who can dedicate 30 hours per week will progress faster than someone who invests two or three.
The self-paced model counters the problem of holding back certain students, allowing them to progress at the most appropriate speed for them. It is also an ideal model for any student whose available time may vary from week to week or those who have a lot of time to invest. However, the learning group will not stay together, hindering collaboration.
Finally, the mode of delivery refers to the way distance education content is actually delivered to students, as well as the way in which they subsequently engage with it. The main modes are as follows:
Synchronous learning is the term used to describe distance education delivery where students and teachers interact with one another from different locations but at the same time. It is a relatively recent phenomenon in terms of e-learning, facilitated by technology like Skype, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
Essentially, synchronous learning takes place ‘live’ or in real-time, similar to in-person instruction, but the learning group is geographically separated. Students may be required to participate in compulsory learning activities – which may include group chats, virtual classroom sessions, and more – at an agreed time. As a result, the learning group interacts, close collaboration becomes much easier, and direct instruction from teachers is possible.
When distance learning occurs away from live sessions, this is referred to as asynchronous learning. It involves a greater degree of self-study, with students potentially carrying out tasks at completely different times from one another, and accessing learning materials on a more on-demand basis. Audio files, video files, and documents can be made available to stream or download, and the creation of this kind of teaching archive is a major advantage.
With asynchronous learning, a level of structure can still be provided by teachers or institutions, primarily through the setting of clear deadlines. However, the learning group is not required to convene at the same time, resulting in greater flexibility. Until relatively recently, this was by far the most common method for online delivery.
As the name suggests, the mixed mode of delivery offers a combination of both synchronous and asynchronous learning. For example, a course could be structured around asynchronous work, but with the learning group required to come together for live sessions on a regular basis, in order to share ideas. Alternatively, it could be that students primarily work independently, but are required to have live one-to-one sessions with the teacher on occasion.
The key advantage of the hybrid model is the potential to benefit from both modes of delivery while mitigating some of the disadvantages associated with them too. Additionally, the hybrid approach provides greater flexibility for teachers, who can make changes as the course progresses, based on the specific needs of students.
The number of distance education types available to students and offered by teachers or academic institutions can make the concept seem daunting. However, breaking the types down into categories can help to make it all much easier to understand. It is also worth remembering that, in practice, many of these types, models or approaches can be delivered in combination, meaning a course can offer online and correspondence components, or paced and self-paced modules.
Collaboration plays an important role in most academic classes or courses, regardless of delivery method, but achieving successful collaboration with remote learning also poses some unique challenges. Yet, while all members of the learning group are separated physically, there are a number of steps that academic institutions, teachers, and students can take to help to facilitate successful remote teamwork.
Read on for more on precisely how successful collaboration with distance education can be achieved.
The vast majority of academic courses include collaborative elements and this applies to remote learning too. Whether it is group discussions, in which ideas are shared, discussed, and expanded upon, or closer collaboration between individuals within the learning group, teamwork can serve to boost engagement and improve understanding. However, with regards to distance learning, the physical separation does prevent some of the usual collaborative activities you might find in traditional classroom settings from taking place, and technological solutions tend to be required. In this article, we explore the ways successful collaboration with remote learning can be made possible.
Before exploring how successful collaboration can be achieved, however, it is useful to establish an understanding of why collaborative activities are necessary and what the benefits actually are. As an article for Education Week explains, collaboration can help students to consider subjects more deeply and also to think about other people’s perspectives. Additionally, collaborative skills are learned over time and the vast majority of employers actively seek candidates with the ability to successfully work as part of a team.
Of course, the importance of collaboration within remote learning goes beyond this, because it can help to overcome some of the natural isolation associated with studying from home. Crucially, the social aspect can help to make virtual classrooms more fun and interesting, which is essential for generating the right levels of student engagement.
One of the most obvious ways in which collaboration through distance learning can be made possible is via synchronous communication. In simple terms, this refers to communication methods that occur with all participants present and actively engaged in communicating at the same time, despite being in different geographical locations.
For example, online chat and instant messaging platforms allow for students to have back-and-forth interactions. This can make it much easier to work together on projects or share knowledge and information about the course. Collaboration can also be made easier through virtual classrooms, which function as a shared online space.
Concepts like video conferencing, digital whiteboarding, and screen sharing can all help members of the same learning group to collaborate, and these can all be enabled through solutions like myViewBoard. Meanwhile, teachers can help to encourage teamwork through virtual classroom quizzes, presentations, and similar team activities.
While most people think of collaborative efforts as group activities that occur through real-time interactions, the reality is that asynchronous communication has a role to play in facilitating successful collaboration too. For instance, many courses make use of bulletin boards, which can allow students to discuss topics and share information.
In some cases, students may be able to collaborate through delegation of different tasks and a subsequent sharing of their work via email. As an example, students working on a joint project may each take on separate workloads and then send each other the work they have done, before combining it all into the single finished project.
There are several advantages associated with asynchronous collaboration. For one, students do not have to be working on collaborative projects at the exact same time, providing flexibility. In addition, message board posts and emails do not suffer in the event of a temporary loss of internet connection. However, asynchronous collaboration is slower.
When it comes to generating the right level of collaboration with remote learning, cloud computing technology can be invaluable. As a starting point, cloud-based solutions like Microsoft Office 365 can help to ensure all students are using the same software, eradicating the compatibility issues that can otherwise plague collaborative efforts.
Beyond this, however, cloud storage solutions can help to facilitate fast, safe and efficient sharing of digital files, either with individuals or the whole class. In fact, using a combination of cloud-based software solutions and cloud storage, it becomes possible for multiple students to make changes to the same document at the exact same time.
Encouraging students to work together on certain tasks can help to improve their understanding of key concepts and can also help to develop the kind of crucial collaborative skills that are needed in many workplaces too. Although remote learning requires some adjustments to the ways collaboration usually works, as students are not physically present in the same place, both synchronous and asynchronous digital communication can help.
Examples of possible collaborative activities can range from team brainstorming exercises, presentations, and joint projects, to virtual classroom-based team quizzes. When collaboration becomes a key part of a remote learning course, participants tend to become more engaged and a culture of shared responsibility can be cultivated.
Distance learning can provide excellent opportunities for academic institutions to reach a wider audience, and for students to access courses more easily, but it is necessary to acknowledge some of the remote education challenges too. After all, it is only by understanding the challenges that strategies can be devised to overcome them or reduce any negative impact they may have.
Continue reading to learn more about some of the ways to overcome remote education challenges or read What Is Distance Learning? And Why Is It So Important?
Modern distance learning represents an excellent opportunity for classes and courses to take place, even when people are in different parts of the world, but there are a number of remote education challenges too. After all, the physical separation between members of the learning group prevents some learning activities from even being possible.
On top of this, technology can present issues of its own, although it can also provide solutions too, and ultimately, many of the problems that have historically been linked to remote teaching and remote learning can now be overcome. In this article, we take a more in-depth look at these challenges and precisely how to deal with them.
Arguably the single biggest challenge associated with distance learning is achieving a high level of student engagement and keeping attrition rates low. According to research carried out by IMAC, many distance learning courses suffer from comparatively high dropout rates – sometimes exceeding 50 percent – and this is often related to engagement. The study goes on to highlight some of the ways engagement can be boosted, including:
It is crucial to avoid a situation where distance courses become little more than recorded lectures. The basic premise of active learning can still be applied in video conferencing or virtual classroom settings and this technology can also help to facilitate collaboration and whole-group activities, which can help to build collective responsibility.
The aforementioned challenge of achieving fluid and reliable communication is one of the major obstacles with remote learning and this is especially true when many of the learning activities are asynchronous and rely on independent study. However, regular email correspondence, clear instructions and options for one-to-one video chats can help.
With synchronous learning, on the other hand, it is important to be clear about the times when the learning group will come together and what will be required to do so. For instance, if people need to have access to specific channels of communication, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Google Hangouts, they need to know in advance.
The best way to overcome remote education challenges related to communication is to offer as many channels for communication as possible. This will allow students to ask questions and obtain information when they need it, feel connected to other members of the learning group, and minimize misunderstandings and similar communication issues.
As explained in our article, ‘What Is Distance Learning? And Why Is It So Important?‘, most modern distance education takes place over the internet and often, students will be required to use the same applications or even a broader learning system. This does, however, present a challenge when it comes to providing access.
It is important that distance learning is made as accessible as possible and when students are paying course fees and splashing out on the necessary devices, it may be expecting too much for them to invest in a large number of software applications, too. Similarly, it can be important that essential technology is kept as affordable as possible.
With regard to providing access to software, cloud-based platforms, such as Microsoft Office 365 and Google Apps, are likely to provide the best solution. Some academic institutions also improve access to technology by offering discounts or funding for students to acquire laptops and similar essential devices.
Finally, the advantages of collaboration within education are numerous. As Cornell University points out, the concept of collaborative learning can help students to develop higher-level thinking, improve understanding of key concepts, and build communication skills. On top of this, it can help to create a social element to the classroom experience.
Of course, with distance education, this does become slightly more tricky. In a physical classroom, it is relatively easy to ask students to work in groups, and collaboration can be much more ‘hands-on’. However, remote collaboration is also possible, especially thanks to cloud hosting, screen-sharing, video conferencing, and other similar technology.
Given the numerous ways that collaboration can help to improve learning experiences, facilitating group or pairwork tasks is often a top priority. Solutions like myViewBoard Classroom can assist with this, offering shared whiteboarding, instant huddle groups, live annotations, screen sharing and a number of other useful features.
The modern internet age has already helped to remove many of the traditional remote education challenges or problems, but it is imperative that teachers, schools and students all have an understanding of the obstacles that remain. Specifically, engagement, attendance, communication, access and collaboration all pose challenges that need to be overcome, and technological solutions, including myViewBoard, can play a key role.
If you’d like to learn more about myViewBoard Suite, and how it facilitates learning and collaboration, click here. Or you can read our post on improving student engagement in a virtual classroom
Succinctly defining distance learning can be challenging, because there are a number of different distance learning types and models to cover. Meanwhile, certain terms, such as ‘e-learning’ and ‘online learning’ are synonymous with distance learning in some contexts, but not in others. Nevertheless, all forms of distance learning share some common traits, and the objectives are usually the same. Keep reading to learn more about distance learning and how it can be defined.
If your an educator interested in learning how you can teach at your best while from home, then be sure to read: Teach from Home: A Digital Teaching Toolkit
Defining distance learning, or distance education, is a useful yet challenging endeavor. While the concepts share similarities with more traditional, classroom-based learning, at least in terms of its primary aims and objectives, there are also clear differences too, which is why they needs to be treated as unique educational approaches.
Nevertheless, achieving a clear and concise definition is difficult, because distance learning is a fairly broad term, referring to a number of different types of remote education. For this reason, in addition to providing a basic definition, it can be important to increase the understanding of different concepts included within the original definition.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the basic distance definition of distance learning is:
This definition helps establish the basic premise of distance learning, which is that the educator(s) and those who are learning are not physically present in the same location. In addition, it also sets up some of the solutions that are used to enable distance education, such as the internet, email, and traditional mail.
Today, distance learning is often considered to be synonymous with terms like “e-learning”, “online learning”, and “virtual classrooms”. However, this is not strictly true. While e-learning or online learning is a form of distance learning, the broader definition also includes old-style correspondence courses, where the material is sent through the post.
When defining distance learning, it can also be useful to cover some key characteristics. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, distance learning has four key characteristics, regardless of the model being used, and these are:
These four key characteristics help to separate formal distance learning from practices like people voluntarily learning information in their spare time, in an unstructured way. The reference to staying connected via telecommunications also helps to ensure that modern internet-based methods and more traditional mail-based methods are both included.
When attempting to answer the question ‘what is distance learning?’, it can also be useful to define some of the key types or models of distance education. Below, you will find a breakdown of some of the most prominent types.
Synchronous distance learning refers to a type of learning where the learning group – comprised of both the teacher and the students – interacts at the same time, albeit from different geographical locations. With this model, students are usually required to participate in learning activities at a set time, with this being facilitated by digital technology.
Another way to think of synchronous distance learning is by viewing it as a form of ‘live’ education. By having students participate at the same time, it can help to provide a clear structure and may also enhance interaction within the group. Examples of synchronous learning activities include group chats, webinars, and other forms of video conferencing.
In contrast to the previous model, asynchronous distance learning is a type of distance education where learning takes place on a more individual basis, rather than through shared live group sessions. Generally, structure is still provided in the form of clear deadlines for completing tasks, but students complete these in a time that suits them.
Asynchronous study tends to provide a greater degree of flexibility, as learners are not required to participate at the exact same time, although this can reduce interactions within the learning group. Educational materials may take the form of written content, pre-recorded video lessons, audio recordings, and either mail or email correspondence.
With paced distance learning, the defining feature is that the lessons are completed by all students within the same basic time frame. In the majority of cases, this means that students will have the same start date, the same end date, and the same deadlines for specific tasks or pieces of work to be completed by.
Paced courses are especially prevalent with institutions that offer a combination of both distance and in-person courses. The ability to keep the learning group together in terms of how quickly they progress through a course can be classed as a potential advantage, although there is also the risk of holding certain students back.
As you might expect, self-paced distance learning refers to distance learning models where the students are given the freedom to go at their own pace. This means that the total time taken for the course can differ significantly from one student to another, depending on factors like ability, amount of free time available, and overall engagement.
The main advantages here are freedom and flexibility, and self-paced courses also help to avoid situations where learners with a high level of interest and aptitude are held back. This model also allows for students to enroll at different times. However, the lack of structure can make interaction among students more difficult.
Distance learning can be briefly described as any form of learning where the teachers and students are not physically present in the same location. However, some definitions do go further, creating a distinction between unstructured self-study and more structured, organized distance education. Today, it tends to be facilitated through digital technology, although more traditional mail-based models are still technically examples of distance learning.
If your interested in learning more about Distance learning, read What Is Distance Learning? And Why Is It So Important? At the same time, if you are curious about the way virtual classrooms function learn here by reading Virtual Classroom: The Future of Distance Learning.
The rise of remote work has helped to revolutionize modern working life, but there are certain aspects that do present challenges when compared to more traditional office-based working models. One example of this comes in the form of collaboration while telecommuting. However, by understanding the problem and implementing a few of our easy tips, you and your team will be working together while apart in no time.
Read on for ways to see how collaboration while telecommuting is not only possible but effective, too.
Modern technology has helped facilitate an increased ability to carry out many jobs remotely, rather than traveling to a central place of work, but it is important to recognize some of the challenges associated with telecommuting. Arguably one of the most significant relates to workplace collaboration.
It is understandable that remote working causes a certain amount of concern in this area. After all, one of the single biggest arguments in favor of the move towards open-plan office designs was the supposed potential for increased collaboration that could be provided by removing barriers to contact. Yet, research on the validity of this claim has also led to something of a backlash against open-plan designs and there is an increasing acceptance that the goal should really be to get the right people collaborating in the right way – and telecommuting has a role to play.
In truth, when you adopt the right strategy, collaboration and telecommuting can go hand in hand.
You ma not be physically present in the same room – or even the same building – as the people you are looking to collaborate with. The first thing to focus on is ensuring you have reliable methods of communication. For best results, this should include a telephone, video calling, instant messaging, and email.
A smartphone will be vital, as this will take care of all of the above options, assuming you download the relevant apps, such as WhatsApp and Skype. However, you may find it easier to carry out video calling on a larger screen, and laptops, desktops, and tablets are perfectly viable options for this, offering additional screen real estate.
Software solutions like Microsoft Teams and Zoom also allow for mass participation in video calls, while software suites like myViewBoard, can be ideal for sharing visual ideas in real-time with digital whiteboarding and visual communication options. Crucially, however, for collaboration to be possible, teams will need to have near-universal buy-in, with all team members using the same apps.
A key part of successful project collaboration involves actually managing teams and this means assigning the right tasks to the right people at the right time, in order to avoid unnecessary delays.
Remote project management is a common area of interest for people discovering how to work from home with maximum efficiency, and there are some natural obstacles, as project leaders cannot physically see progress being made. Meanwhile, managing communication from all team members can potentially become overwhelming.
However, solutions like Trello and Microsoft Planner can help to organize and manage team activities from a single place and both options are simple enough to implement throughout an entire team. Both of these options can make it easier to visualize workflow and ensure teams are maintaining the required levels of productivity.
Even with the right strategies, software, and hardware in place, there are a number of common obstacles that can make it more difficult to collaborate effectively while you work from home, with examples including the following:
The reliability of work from home solutions can be a major difficulty. This refers not only to the reliability of the various software solutions chosen to facilitate collaboration, but also the reliability of team members’ hardware and internet connections. Problems in this area could result in video calls ending abruptly, or team members becoming difficult to hear clearly, which can then have a huge bearing on the effectiveness of collaboration.
Of course, in a physical workplace, employers can take steps to make networking and internet connections more reliable, but this is not possible with remote workers. As a result, the main solution here is to ensure you and other team members have a wide range of different communication options available, including some offline methods.
On top of this, you will need to identify the software applications that are most reliable for your requirements.
Another problem that may arise in certain organizations is the difference in working times between different team members. Employees may be afforded some flexibility in terms of when they start and finish work, yet this can make collaboration more difficult, as people who need to work together may not necessarily be working at the same time.
One of the potential benefits of telecommuting is the ability for people to work regardless of location. Yet, this may also present problems, especially if people are in different time zones from one another.
To get around these problems, it may be necessary to schedule people to work at specific times of the day, in order to allow for closer teamwork. Additionally, it is worth noting that file-sharing solutions and video recording technology can help to get around certain problems associated with live communication.
Collaboration with telecommuting does present some natural obstacles because team members are working in isolation. Yet, working from home does also have the potential to reduce unwanted distractions and, when this is paired with the right coordination, the right use of technology and a willingness to work together, teamwork can be just as effective.
If you are looking for the essential tools that make it easier to succeed while working from home check out these Essential Tools for Remote Work.
Telecommuting is becoming an increasingly common and necessary part of modern employment, but lasting success depends upon having the right tools for the remote work. While the specific systems and applications you use will vary based on the nature of your role; some equipment, devices, and services can be regarded as essential for the vast majority of situations
Keep reading to find out more about what’s essential when working from home.
Modern technology has helped to make working from home a realistic prospect for people in a large number of roles, but it is crucial that you are equipped with the right tools for remote work. When you are, studies have shown that telecommuting is not only possible but actually offers a number of key benefits for workers and employers alike.
The growth in opportunities to work from home can be attributed to a range of different factors, including improved internet speeds, widespread availability of internet-enabled devices, globalization, as well as growing concerns over the environment.
However, without these tools, it becomes difficult to perform your day-to-day tasks effectively, collaborate remotely, or otherwise communicate with colleagues, customers, and other businesses or organizations. For these reasons, it’s important to have the essential devices and equipment, as well as access to the right software and services.
On a basic level, for remote work to even be possible, you are going to need to either own or have continuous access to an internet-enabled device, which must be capable of running all software applications and other services you require for your job. There are a number of possible options here, but the main ones include:
Realistically, and for most people, desktop or laptop computers can be regarded as essential when working remotely. They offer a large enough screen for you to work comfortably for prolonged periods and offer the processing power necessary to run key software. You will need a keyboard for any job that requires a significant amount of typing and while tablet keyboards exist, they are small and may not be ideal when typing for several hours every day.
At the same time, there may be instances where a tablet or smartphone is sufficient in its own right, but they tend to be better deployed as supplementary devices. This can be especially true for anyone who requires a second screen to perform work tasks.
Next, you need to consider the various communication tools and services you require so that you are able to communicate effectively with the people you need to. In different situations, this communication could be either text-based, voice-based, or video-based. This could mean the use of email, instant messaging, text messaging, as well as telephone and/or video calls.
Modern smartphones offer voice calls, text messaging, and email support, while their apps and cameras make video calls possible. As a result, a smartphone is likely to be the single most important communication device for remote work purposes. Yet, video calls may be easier with a larger screen, such as those on a laptop or tablet.
If you have a laptop or desktop computer and it does not have a built-in camera, you will likely need to buy a webcam. In order to make communication clear and efficient, you will need to have access to a pair of headphones, with a built-in microphone. Moreover, a cloud-based storage solution can be ideal for sharing documents and other files.
Of all the essential tools for remote work, software solutions can be the hardest to pin down. After all, the applications that are necessary to work from home in one job may differ significantly from those needed in another. Nevertheless, there are a certain number of software solutions that are especially likely to be needed by the vast majority of remote workers.
For instance, you are almost certainly going to need a word processor, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs, as well as an application that is able to read PDF files. Additionally, you may need spreadsheet or database software. For work communication purposes, an email account is vital, while apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Microsoft Teams can also be advantageous, allowing you to carry out video calls and teleconferencing.
If presentations are a key part of your role, you are likely in need of slide show and/or screen sharing software, or even a digital whiteboarding solution, assuming you have access to a touch screen. Some roles will also require frequent use of social media platforms, like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, so social media management tools can be vital.
It is crucial to understand that working from home is fundamentally different from working in a shared workspace, in a number of key ways. One of the single biggest challenges associated with learning how to work from home for many people is the absence of a defined workstation, and this means you may need to create one for yourself.
For some, it may be perfectly possible to work comfortably and effectively from your sofa or even from your bed. Yet, these are not always the best options for maximizing productivity and if you are going to use a desktop computer, multiple screens, and other equipment, it may not be possible at all. If you do require a desk and chair, prioritize comfort and ensure that the chair is at an appropriate height, in relation to the desk and your screen(s).
The location of your workstation will be dependent on many factors, including the space you have at home, the strength of your Wi-Fi signal, and whether or not there are distractions nearby.
Successfully adapting to working from home is a process and it can take a little bit of time to get into the full swing of things. Yet, if you have the right tools for remote working, it can not only serve as a suitable substitute for working in an office but can actually provide tangible benefits for employees and their employers.
The types of job roles that can be carried out remotely are increasingly diverse, but for the majority, you will need to ensure you possess the right internet-enabled devices, have access to the right software applications and digital services, and possess the necessary equipment to make communication, collaboration, and work presentations possible.
If you find yourself working from home but not being as effective as you were in the office then check out these Working at Home: 7 Productivity Tips. Or if you would like to dive deeper into detail on working from home check out How to Work from Home: A 2020 Guide to Remote Work.