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Remote workers need easy and secure access to the office network, helpdesk, faxing and
voice-mail facilities.
They need protection from crashes, viruses and unauthorized access.
Finally, the managers of teleworking employees often complain that they have
problems supervising and monitoring the productivity of remote workers.
The above factors are especially relevant to Indian conditions as we do
not have a very reliable telecom infrastructure that can support sensitive
data communication. Monitoring products are provided by a number
of companies including Symantec’s own pcAnywhere 8.0 software. Lab
tests show that this latest version of pcAnywhere provides higher levels of security than
was previously possible during remote communication sessions.
Other companies too are in the fray with oodles of products and services. For example,
AT&T is offering a service, presently only in the UK, called AT&T Virtual Workplace
that integrates portable voice, fax and e-mail messaging, telephony and intranet tools for
a little as fifty pounds per month.
The service is also being promoted in a way to allow users to remotely access their office-
based computer files and documents.There is also a “team diary” facility to book meetings
with colleagues and customers, access the Internet and intranets, and reap the benefits of
an intelligent telephony service that allows phones to be redirected to a specified number.
AT&T says its Virtual Workplace service is also not limited to use on desktop and
notebook computers, but also available on hand-held systems.
While the realization may dawn that the above options are not possible
in India presently, the scenario definitely looks encouraging. With
telecom liberalization, operators are expected to offer better quality
services at lower costs, and also customized intelligent communication
solutions. In fact, some infotech companies in India have already started to look at
teleworking as a viable option.
With increasing global integration, the concept that has already caught the imagination
of managers in USA and Europe, would soon make its presence felt in India too. If you
are not in the race already, it may be a wise idea to design your organization for a flexi
approach that accommodates teleworking.
n
In India too, where we are besieged
with problems relating to commuting
and transportation, tele-working is set
to emerge as a viable style of working.
