Few would argue that the modern workplace has permanently changed as a result of the pandemic, for better or worse. With recent research from Apogee finding that almost two thirds (63%) of IT directors are not very confident in their IT estate’s ability to fully support the hybrid workforce – while at the same time seven-in ten (71%) of those surveyed are not placing IT investment at the top of the priority list – it’s clear that the transition to a hybrid working environment remains a challenge for many. To this end we have articles in this issue that offer advice on creating a modern hybrid workplace.

First, Jason Barker, SVP EMEA & APAC, IR, sounds a note of caution about the lurking threat that Shadow IT represents to hybrid working. According to Jason “Businesses clearly have an array of cultural and operational challenges to address to create a hybrid working model that engages all employees. But too few have recognised the impact of Shadow IT and a company’s lack of control over the unified communications tools preferred by diverse individuals across the business.” Read Jason’s opinion piece for insights into how monitoring unified communications can help create a secure and seamless hybrid working environment.

We also have a viewpoint from VITEC, who offer a guide to three digital solutions that can benefit the modern workplace while improving the employee experience, namely multicast enterprise video streaming, guided personal and managerial assessments, and the recreation of mobile/smartphone app experiences for an office environment.

Finally a quick reminder to cast your nominations for the finalists in this year’s Network Computing Awards. Nominations close on March 9th so be sure to make your selections on the awards website soon!

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