Modern workplaces are evolving beyond the traditional, 9 to 5 desk-bound culture. Legacy internal communication tools are giving way to dynamic, mobile-first intranets. For companies managing a dispersed workforce, mobile intranet software is a lifesaver.

What is a Mobile Intranet?

A mobile intranet is a mobile-enabled internal communications tool. Mobile intranet software helps connect, inform, align, and engage dispersed employees, anytime.

Today, many companies are switching to remote and hybrid working. Along with in-office staff, organizations also need to manage frontline workers and field teams. With a mobile intranet, companies can keep everyone in their workforce on the same page.

Why Does Your Company Need a Mobile Intranet?

Here are seven reasons why your business needs mobile intranet software.

1. Connect Deskless Employees

Early-stage intranets connected desk-bound employees and knowledge workers with their immediate team. Today, many people work far from the physical confines of a workstation. Some may be traveling to meet customers in other cities. Some may be attending business conferences or trade exhibitions. So how can you connect everyone across the organization and help them stay on the same page? Look no further than a mobile intranet.

Your company’s mobile intranet sticks your whole workforce together, including deskless employees. Say one of your teams is representing your brand at a trade show. With a mobile intranet, you can catch up with any of your reps, at any time of the day. If your production team is busy on the floor, you can use the mobile intranet to communicate with them.

A mobile intranet allows you to notify deskless employees when something needs immediate attention. Besides, you can schedule virtual meetings, present ideas, share files, and more.

Up-to-date internal communications instill in employees a sense of purpose and belonging. When your team feels connected and aligned with your goals, they take pride in what they do. It improves your workplace morale, resulting in better performance and productivity.

2. Keep Your Field Teams and Frontline Workers in the Loop

Your field service teams represent your brand to customers and the outside world. You may need to often interact with the staff selling your products or exhibiting at a trade show. A mobile intranet is the only way your field teams can connect to the rest of the company.

Using the mobile intranet, your staff can send real-time updates from the field. It helps field teams exchange ideas and feedback with your in-office employees. Your staff can record data on the field and share reports with the back-office team right away.

With your mobile intranet, field teams can access organizational data and resources at any time. They can also find data relevant to their jobs on mobile. It helps reduce on-site errors, leading to improved job performance.

Most workplace chaos stems from delayed communications or wrong information. A mobile intranet consolidates all your internal communications in one place. It ensures everyone in your organization, from in-office to remote teams, is on the same page.

3. Harness the Productive Moment From Anywhere

With a mobile intranet, your team can connect and contribute from any location, at any time. When you’re walking between meetings or riding in a cab, the mobile intranet helps you stay on top of work.

Mobile intranet software is a perfect work assistant that captures your in-moment productivity. It helps reduce idle hours, making your interstitial time more productive.

4. Take Good Note of All Notifications

Enriching notification management is a key feature of modern mobile intranets. Customizable mobile notifications ensure you never miss any key updates. You can track notifications on the go and determine how and when you should get notified. Say your customer’s SLA is due in two days. When you get notified of the same ahead of 48 hours, it’s a lifesaver.

Mobile intranets provide timely notifications that help achieve work-life balance. Your smartphone is the best place to manage and process work-related notifications. You can check important notifications from anywhere, at any time of the day, on any mobile device.

5. Get Away from the Email Overpour

Gone are the days when company email was the only way to notify employees. Managers are resorting to mobile intranets to notify teams of critical updates. Mobile notifications highlighting message summaries save your team’s time. The right intranet provides the best experience on mobile, boosting employee productivity.

Mobile intranets help overcome the challenge of losing critical notifications shared via email. Instant mobile alerts work better than clumsy notifications hidden in long emails. Real-time notifications on mobile make workdays more meaningful and organized.

6. Promote Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Initiatives

According to Statista, organizations will spend USD 732 billion on devices in 2024. A mobile intranet is an excellent budget-saver for organizations planning to reduce asset costs. When you have employees who don’t need a company PC or a laptop to work, a mobile intranet comes in handy as a work aid.

Today, many organizations let their staff manage work on personal devices. For these employees, a mobile intranet is a must to stay connected with their teams and work. If your organization is encouraging BYOD, mobile intranets are a must-take path.

7. Boost Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Readiness

Disasters and emergencies of varying scales can affect your work routines. Imagine a hacker breaching your company’s network or a short circuit causing you to shut down. Unforeseen natural calamities like earthquakes and floods too can bring your network down. During an emergency, a mobile intranet works as the best internal communications tool.

When you need to free people from desks, your mobile intranet helps them work from safer zones. During such times, mobile is the only way to reach your teams and help those in distress. Companies can update employees on safe remote working practices through mobile. Admins can notify employees of back-to-office plans when they’re ready to reopen.

How Does Infince Mobile Intranet Help Your Business?

Looking for a mobile intranet that packs in essential workplace management tools? Enter Infince, the modern social intranet for managing your entire business.

With its state-of-the-art features, Infince fosters team collaboration and frictionless workplace communication. Employees can access the Infince mobile intranet on iOS or Android-supported mobile devices.

What can you find in the Infince mobile intranet?

Infince mobile intranet brings a modern digital workplace to your fingertips. Here’re some of the top features you’ll find in Infince.

• Workplace Feed: Allows employees to receive the latest company updates. Employees can also create and share insights using Feed.
• Polls and Surveys: Use polls and surveys to seek feedback from your team, at any time. Encourage them to share valuable insights for continuous improvement.
• Communication Boards: Access communication boards anytime, anywhere, to receive the latest company updates.
• Collaboration Apps: Live chat, video meetings, employee directory, and other workplace collaboration tools.
• Productivity Tools: Calendar, Task Manager, Drive, Gallery, Documents, Spreadsheets, and Presentations.
• Secure File Sharing: Secure drive to store critical organizational files and documents. Your distributed teams get instant access to the files using their login credentials. Strong encryption and access controls to safeguard shared files and data.

The list doesn’t end here. Infince also supports customization and integration with other apps you use.

What Are the Unique Advantages of Infince Mobile Intranet?

• Engages both desk users and frontline workers alike. Gives everybody across your diverse workforce a voice. Fosters a sense of community, belonging, and connection.
• Saves the cost and effort of configuring and customizing the intranet. Infince cloud platform is scalable and easy to configure. No need to rebuild the intranet every time you add more users.
• Drives employee advocacy initiatives. Employees can post their wins, stories, and achievements on company or team dashboards. It helps create a positive brand image, enhancing your hiring and retention process.
• Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Success stories and updates shared on Infince boards promote a positive work culture. Employees get inspired and connect themselves with what they do.  
• Improves remote employee experience: Infince is available on iOS and Android mobile devices. Your employees can install and use Infince from anywhere, at any time. You can customize the mobile app’s interface to reflect your branding. It helps in offering your remote teams an engaging experience.
• Suitable for small and mid-sized organizations without specific technical skills.  Infince is the right choice for small businesses that want to set up and scale an intranet in no time. Infince offers a social media-like interactive experience that modern employees are familiar with.

Make your workday easy, productive, and engaging with the Infince mobile intranet.

Want to see where Infince could take your business? Book a personalized demo today.

In today’s hyper-connected digital landscape, communication is not just a tool; it’s a strategic cornerstone for organizational success. The world of work is evolving, and so are the dynamics of how employees communicate within an organization. In 2024, embracing the latest internal communication trends isn’t just a choice; it’s a necessity.

Let’s delve deeper into why these trends matter for digital workplaces with real-life examples that highlight their significance.

1. Personalization and Targeted Messaging

Salesforce reports that 62% of employees expect their employers to deliver the same level of personalization they experience as consumers. Generic mass emails are becoming a thing of the past. Modern internal communication tools allow for personalized and targeted messaging. When employees receive communications that are specifically curated for them, it cuts through the noise and ensures that important messages don’t get lost. Infince’s capabilities allow organizations to segment their employee base, enabling HR and communication teams to send targeted updates, policies, or announcements to the relevant groups. For example, a finance department might receive updates on financial regulations, while the marketing team receives news about the latest campaigns. This targeted approach ensures that each group gets the information they need, when they need it.

2. Video Content as a Communication Medium

According to Forbes, employees are 75% more likely to watch a video than to read documents, emails, or web articles. Cisco predicts that by 2024, video content will make up 82% of all internet traffic.

Video is gaining prominence as a powerful internal communication tool. Live broadcasts, video newsletters, and recorded messages from leadership are becoming the norm. Studies have consistently shown that visual content is more memorable and emotionally impactful than text-based communication. 

Accessibility and inclusivity: The video caters to diverse learning styles and accessibility needs. It allows organizations to communicate with employees who may prefer visual or auditory information over text.

Visual and emotional impact: Video enables organizations to convey complex messages, share company culture, and celebrate achievements in a compelling and emotionally resonant way.

Global Reach and Consistency: For organizations with a global presence, video offers a scalable and consistent means of communication. Whether it’s training materials, updates from leadership, or company-wide announcements, video ensures that the message remains consistent across different time zones and cultures.

3. Remote Work Communication Integration

A McKinsey study reveals that employees spend 20% of their time searching for internal information or colleagues. With remote work becoming a permanent fixture, companies are integrating communication tools that cater to a dispersed workforce. The Remote Work Statistics 2022 report states that 79% of employees say they would like to continue working remotely, at least part-time.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of remote work success. Remote work communication integration enables real-time collaboration through tools like video conferencing, instant messaging, and document sharing.

4. AI-Powered Chatbots for Employee Support

A study by Deloitte found that organizations with high-maturity AI capabilities for HR are twice as likely to report better business outcomes. IBM reports that companies using AI for employee engagement have seen an 11% increase in employee productivity. Following through on this trend, several companies are increasingly using AI-powered chatbots to provide immediate and round-the-clock support to employees. These bots can answer common HR questions, assist with onboarding, and even provide training materials. 

How Infince Helps Tackle Common Internal Communication Challenges and Keeps You Up with Trends

Infince, a cutting-edge platform, plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges associated with internal communication and keeping your organization aligned with the latest trends:

Streamlined Communication Channels

Infince provides a unified communication platform, bringing together chat, video conferencing, file sharing, and more into one centralized hub. This streamlines communication, making it easier for employees to connect, collaborate, and stay informed.

Video Conferencing

With video becoming a vital communication tool, Infince seamlessly integrates video conferencing and live streaming capabilities, ensuring your organization can harness the power of visual communication.

Remote Work Enablement

With the proliferation of communication tools, employees often find themselves juggling multiple platforms, leading to communication fatigue and reduced productivity. Remote work communication integration simplifies this landscape. 

Infince is designed to support remote work, offering secure access to company resources from anywhere. This feature is vital in the current landscape, where remote and hybrid work arrangements are the norm.  Infince’s integrated chat and collaboration features empower remote teams to connect instantly, host virtual meetings, and collaborate on projects, fostering efficient teamwork even when employees are geographically dispersed.

Remote work communication integration helps break down communication silos that can arise in dispersed work environments. Infince ensures that information flows across departments and teams, promoting cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing. This integrated approach prevents information fragmentation and promotes a more connected and informed workforce.

Wrapping up

As we embrace these exciting trends in internal communication for 2024, it’s clear that Infince is the solution that can help your organization thrive. In conclusion, the importance of internal communication cannot be overstated. Staying on top of the latest trends and leveraging innovative solutions like Infince is essential to fostering a connected, engaged, and productive workforce in 2024 and beyond. 

Embrace these trends and watch your organization thrive in the world of internal communication. Ensure that your internal communication strategies align with the evolving needs of your workforce, ultimately driving success, productivity, and employee satisfaction in 2024 and beyond. Embrace the future of internal communication with us today! Sign Up with Infince now!

As much as off-the-shelf software seems comfortable being readily available and accessible, the era of customization is gaining a foothold. To be able to stand differentiated, intranets need to go beyond the mile.

An effective employee intranet platform is not just a repository of information but a dynamic workspace that adapts to the unique needs and preferences of each user. 

This blog delves into why customization and personalization are key to offering a tailored intranet experience, focusing on the innovative capabilities of Infince’s intranet solutions.

1. Customizable Dashboards: Tailored Efficiency at Your Fingertips

A highly customizable dashboard allows each user to tailor their dashboard to display the most relevant information and tools for their role. This feature is crucial for enhancing productivity, as it allows employees to focus on the tasks and data most pertinent to their responsibilities. Customizable dashboards mean less time spent navigating through irrelevant information and more time on productive work.

2. Advanced Notification Preferences: Streamlined Communication

In an era of information overload, advanced notification preferences are a game-changer. Employees can fine-tune their notification settings to ensure they receive critical updates without being bombarded by less important alerts. This level of control over notifications helps in maintaining focus and reducing distractions, a key factor in enhancing workplace efficiency.

3. Personalized User Profiles: Building a Connected Community

Personalized user profiles are vital to connected workplaces. Employees can add personal details to their profiles, fostering a more engaging and socially connected environment. This personalization goes beyond mere aesthetics; it helps build a community within the workplace, encourages collaboration, and improves team dynamics.

4. Integration Capabilities: Your Workspace, Your Way

Strength lies not just in its standalone features but also in its seamless integration capabilities. A platform that allows integration with a wide range of third-party applications, ensuring that businesses can tailor their intranet to include the tools they already use and love. This flexibility in integration is vital for businesses that rely on a variety of software solutions, as it ensures a cohesive and unified user experience.

5. Security Customization: Safeguarding Your Digital Identity

Robust customization options help recognize the critical importance of security. Businesses can tailor their security settings to match their specific needs, ensuring that their data and communications remain secure while still being accessible to the right people. This customizable security feature is especially crucial for organizations handling sensitive information, providing peace of mind and compliance with regulatory standards.

Conclusion

The benefits of a personalized intranet experience are manifold. It leads to higher user satisfaction, improved productivity, and a more engaged workforce. Infince employee intranet platform exemplifies how customization and personalization can transform a standard intranet into a dynamic and tailored digital workspace. 

In summary, Infince’s customization and personalization features make it a standout choice for businesses aiming to optimize their digital workspace. From tailored dashboards and notification preferences to personalized user profiles and robust integration options, Infince offers a level of adaptability that meets the diverse needs of modern businesses. 

Coupled with its customizable security options, Infince is not just a tool but a versatile platform that enhances productivity, fosters collaboration, and safeguards essential business data. Where adaptability and personalization are key, choosing an intranet solution like Infince can be a game-changer for organizations aiming to thrive in the digital age.

Let’s explore more customizable and personalized features of Infince’s tailored intranet solution. Request a Free Demo today!

Even as we transition from a remote working environment to a hybrid workplace, the ubiquitous power of video meetings cannot be undermined for today’s corporate workforce. Like a virtual bridge, they seamlessly connect teams spread across various locations, fostering real-time interactions that mimic face-to-face conversations. 

Video meetings have become the linchpin of effective communication, enabling seamless collaboration between in-office and remote team members. An Owl Labs survey of 2022 reveals that 87% of remote and hybrid workers prefer video conferencing as it fosters better engagement and understanding. 

Companies of all sizes have harnessed the power of video meetings, recognizing their potential to enhance productivity, reduce travel costs, and boost employee morale.

The Role of Participant Engagement in Online Video Meetings

With the increasing significance of video meetings, it’s only obvious that the role of participants and their engagement in meetings, participant engagement stands as the vital ingredient for effective communication and seamless collaboration. However, challenges exist that can  impede participant engagement. 

• Technical glitches: From poor internet connections to audio lags and communication delays, technical hiccups hamper engagement, leaving participants feeling disengaged and frustrated.
• Distractions: Distractions pose another obstacle in the path to active involvement. A Gartner study brings to the fore how video meetings always encourage multitasking, which can be detrimental to focus. 41% of employees admitted to doing unrelated work while on video calls. These distractions diminish attention and prevent meaningful contributions, hindering the team’s progress.
• Absence of non-verbal cues: The absence of non-verbal cues in video meetings can lead to misinterpretations. Non-verbal cues carry valuable information, and their absence can reduce the effectiveness of communication. A Buffer study reveals that 43% of remote employees struggle with miscommunication due to a lack of non-verbal cues.

Read More: 5 Ways to Secure Your Meetings When Using Video Conferencing Software

Strategies To Enhance Participant Engagement In Online Video Meeting

To actively tackle the above mentioned challenges, it is crucial to foster an environment that encourages active participation. Employing interactive tools, nurturing open discussions, and setting clear meeting agendas can rekindle participant engagement. By overcoming these challenges, through a video meeting software companies can transform their video meetings into a harmonious symphony of ideas, collaboration, and successful outcomes. Let’s explore potential strategies that can drive participants to engage and interact better to make the most of video meetings.

1. Setting the stage: Pre-meet prep

Before a meeting commences, it is ideal to encourage participants to acquaint themselves with the meeting agenda. Supporting reading material is a good place to start. This sets the tone for removing potential hiccups and helps drive the context of the meeting. By doing so, attendees can come prepared with insightful thoughts, promoting meaningful discussions. For example, in a marketing brainstorming session, sharing market research data beforehand can ignite innovative ideas and creative solutions.

Creating an optimal meeting environment is equally crucial. Suggest tips for participants to set up suitable lighting, background, and minimize distractions. By doing this, you can ensure everyone’s focus remains on the agenda. For instance, in a design review meeting, clear visuals and minimal background noise can facilitate effective feedback and review. Such streamlined meetings can be promoted through an effective video meeting software. 

2. Laying the foundation of interactivity: Meeting agenda

A well-structured agenda is the backbone of an engaging video meeting. Encourage organizers to include interactive activities and discussion points to keep participants actively involved. For instance, in a team-building session, incorporating collaborative exercises that encourage creativity and problem-solving can enhance team dynamics.

Breaking the ice is essential, particularly in virtual meetings where personal connections might feel distant. Suggest incorporating icebreakers or warm-up activities to establish rapport among participants. For example, in a project kick-off meeting, sharing interesting facts about team members can create a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.

3. Encouraging active participation: A culture of contribution

To foster active participation, guide meeting facilitators to ask open-ended questions that encourage thoughtful responses. For instance, in a strategic planning meeting, prompting attendees to share their perspectives on market trends can lead to valuable insights.

Leveraging features like polls, chat, and breakout rooms can transform passive listeners into active contributors. In a product feedback session, conducting live polls or using breakout rooms for smaller group discussions can amplify engagement and encourage diverse viewpoints.

4. Leveraging the video toolkit: Visual aids and multimedia

Incorporating visual aids is a powerful way to enhance engagement and comprehension. Recommend using slides or screen sharing to deliver information effectively. For example, in a training session, visualizing complex concepts through infographics or diagrams can make learning more engaging and memorable.

To maintain interest, suggest using multimedia elements like videos or interactive presentations. In a sales pitch, including customer testimonial videos or interactive product demos can capture participants’ attention and leave a lasting impression.

5. Empowering participants: Strong communication techniques

Establishing clear communication norms is vital to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Provide guidance on using mute/unmute etiquette and raising virtual hands for orderly discussions. For instance, in a team status meeting, creating opportunities for everyone to contribute updates can foster a sense of collaboration and accountability. Active listening is equally crucial for effective communication. Encourage participants to acknowledge and respond to each other’s ideas, promoting a collaborative environment. In a brainstorming session, demonstrating active listening by building on others’ ideas can inspire creative thinking and inclusivity.

6. Experimenting with different narratives: Dynamic meeting formats

Varying the meeting format can inject excitement and maintain engagement. Incorporate small group discussions or interactive tools like whiteboards to encourage active participation. In a project planning meeting, using a whiteboard to collectively outline action items and deadlines can create a sense of ownership and accountability.

Tell captivating stories, use humor, or share personal anecdotes to keep the meeting lively and inspiring. For instance, in a team morale-boosting session, recounting success stories and celebrating achievements can motivate the team to strive for more significant accomplishments.

7. Blazing through challenges: Tips and tricks

Addressing common technical issues proactively is essential to maintain seamless meetings. Provide troubleshooting tips for audio or video glitches, ensuring that participants can navigate any obstacles without derailing the discussion.

Suggest using reliable video conferencing platforms with the latest features and improvements to ensure a smooth experience. In a client presentation, using a secure and user-friendly platform with screen sharing capabilities can impress clients and build trust.

Read More: 5 Video Marketing Trends That Every SMB Needs To Follow

Best Practices for Facilitating Engaging Video Meetings

Here’s a list of best practices to remember to facilitate smooth seamless meetings. 

1. Prepare adequately and set the stage
2. Build an interactive agenda that encourages participants to engage actively
3. Keep open-ended questions a part of the agenda
4. Use visual aids and multimedia
5. Establish clear communication norms
6. Use dynamic meeting formats
7. Incorporate humor and storytelling tools
8. Overcome technical challenges

Acing Online Video Meeting With The Right Tool: Infince, A Customizable Video Engagement Platform

Infince’s online video Meeting software intuitive interface and user-friendly design are built to streamline the video meeting experience, ensuring both organizers and participants can navigate effortlessly through the platform. From pre-meeting preparation to post-meeting follow-ups, Infince facilitates every step of the video conferencing journey.

In the digital era, mastering the art of participant engagement in video meetings is a leadership skill that can set teams on a path to success. By employing these strategies and fostering a culture of active involvement, businesses can leverage the full potential of video meetings to foster collaboration, creativity, and connection among their distributed workforce. When every participant feels valued and inspired to contribute, the power of virtual meetings transcends physical boundaries, creating a united and thriving digital workplace. 

Learn more on how Infince makes a perfect Video Engagement Platform. Request for a Free Demo now!

Goals of increased employee productivity and cost savings are a no-brainer in today’s digitally transformed business landscape. As Rodney Zimmel from McKinsey Digital observes, the whole point of digital transformation isn’t exactly to become digital. It’s actually to drive value for the business. And that value comes from understanding clearly how to move from a physical workspace to a hybrid or a digital workplace platform. 

Embracing a digital workplace is crucial for businesses looking to increase productivity, enhance collaboration, and reduce costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a key accelerator of the perceptive shift to the digital workplace.

Read More: The Definitive Guide to Perfect Digital Workplace Solution

In this blog, we’ll discuss the 8 key considerations you need to make while you make the much needed transition to a digital workplace. From the benefits to caution areas, to potential pitfalls – we have the rundown.

1. The Covid-19 pandemic as a watershed movement: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for businesses to shift to a digital workplace, leading to improved efficiencies, cost savings, and a more agile workforce. According to a study by PwC, companies that adopt digital workplace technology experience a 67% increase in productivity. Additionally, Gartner estimates that the digital workplace market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 14.6% from 2020 to 2027, reaching $45.7 billion by 2027. Deloitte reports that businesses can save up to $11,000 per employee annually by adopting a digital workplace platform. With the rise of automation and artificial intelligence, businesses need to embrace digital transformation and stay ahead of competition. Failure to do so could result in a loss of market share and diminished profitability.
2. Investment in tools and technologies: To enable a successful digital workplace, businesses must invest in the right tools and technologies. This includes video conferencing, instant messaging, project management software, cloud storage, and more. These tools enable employees to communicate and collaborate, regardless of their location or time zone. Additionally, digital workplace tools and technologies offer companies the opportunity to enhance the employee experience, leading to better retention rates and improved employee satisfaction. Access to online training and development programs, as well as digital resources and tools for wellbeing, help employees to feel valued and supported by their employers. A case in point is Accenture, which has implemented a platform called “Collaboration 2.0.” This platform offers employees a range of tools and services to simplify and enhance collaboration and communication, including instant messaging, video conferencing, and document-sharing capabilities. Accenture has reported increased productivity and employee engagement as a result of Collaboration 2.0.
3. The need for continuous upskilling and training: As businesses shift to digital workplaces, it’s essential to upskill and train employees to use the latest technologies effectively. This can be done through online training, workshops, and mentorship programs. Upskilling employees can also boost morale and improve job satisfaction as employees feel valued and equipped with the skills to succeed in a digital workplace. A key example to highlight this is AT&T, which created a Future Ready Employee initiative aimed at providing ongoing upskilling and reskilling to workers while providing them with new career development paths. As a result, they have improved employee retention by 14% and accelerated digital transformation.
4. Cybersecurity as a crucial tenet: As businesses shift to a digital workplace, cybersecurity becomes a crucial consideration. Cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and malware can wreak havoc on a business’s operations, leading to data loss and financial losses. To maintain business continuity, it is important to stay wary of cyber attacks that can bring business operations to a complete halt, causing a loss in productivity and revenue.  Educating employees on cybersecurity best practices and investing in strong cybersecurity measures, such as password management and two-factor authentication, is critical in mitigating these risks.
5. Remote work as a key cost-effective driver: Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, with the pandemic intensifying the trend. Remote work offers many benefits, such as cost savings and increased productivity. However, managing a remote team can be challenging, requiring strong communication and collaboration tools and a clear structure for managing tasks and deadlines.
6. Change management: Shifting to a digital workplace requires a shift in thinking and behavior, which can be challenging for some employees. Change management is critical in managing resistance to change and ensuring a smooth transition. This involves involving employees in the process and providing them with the support and training necessary to adapt to the new reality. Training employees to get up to speed with the latest tools and technologies is key to successful implementation of a digital workplace platform. The risk of working in silos is also cut to a great degree if there is a cohesive change management plan that drives key resources toward a co
7. Generative AI and the future of work: The future of work is set to be increasingly digital, with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and virtual reality playing a significant role. Businesses must continue to invest in digital tools and technologies to remain competitive and harness the potential benefits these technologies offer.
8. Processes and best practices: To successfully shift to a digital workplace, businesses must adopt best practices. This includes creating a digital transformation roadmap and involving employees in the process.
   1. Create a clear digital transformation roadmap: Develop a clear roadmap that outlines your goals, timeline, process, and milestones. This will ensure that everyone in your organization understands the direction of the digital transformation.
   2. Involve employees in the process: Employees are key stakeholders in the transformation process, and their involvement is crucial for the success of the project. Get them involved in brainstorming sessions, focus groups, testing, and feedback.
   3. Secure buy-in from leadership: Secure the buy-in from senior leadership to ensure that the transformation receives the necessary resources and support. This will demonstrate the importance of the project and its impact on the organization’s growth.
   4. Evaluate and choose the right digital tools and platforms: Carefully choose the digital tools and platforms that fit your organization’s needs and culture. Ensure that the tools provide the required features and functionality to achieve your goals.
   5. Train and support employees: Ensure that your employees have appropriate training and support throughout the transformation process. Provide training for new tools and processes to improve their adoption and comprehension.
   6. Measure the success of the transition: Regularly review the progress of the transformation using metrics that are relevant to your goals. Assess the results and adjust plans where necessary to achieve intended outcomes.
   7. Ensure data security and privacy: Implement appropriate data security measures to protect data and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
   8. Simplify processes and eliminate redundancies: Use the transformation to simplify processes and eliminate redundancies. This will optimize the use of resources and reduce costs.
   9. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement: Encourage innovation and continuous improvement in your organization by creating a culture that promotes creativity, experimentation, and learning.
   10. Communicate effectively: Communicate the transformation plans and progress consistently and openly with all stakeholders, partners, and employees. This will ensure that everyone is aware of the efforts and the benefits of the transformation.

In addition to this, the implementation of best practices needs to be reviewed to get a tangible measure of success. Therefore, defining key performance indicators against very specific goals is crucial in ensuring the transition is successful.

Read more: Role of a Digital Workplace Platform in Hybrid Workplace

In conclusion, the shift to a digital workplace is essential for any business looking to remain competitive in an increasingly digital world. The benefits of enhanced collaboration, increased productivity, and cost savings are significant, but the transition requires careful planning, investment in the right tools and technologies, and upskilling and training employees. 

To know more about how Infince can take your business to new heights, connect with our experts today!

Ever since the pandemic brought in the dynamics of remote work and hybrid models, Microsoft Teams has become a household name in the world of remote work. A 2022 press release indicates Microsoft’s revenue of $51.7 billion in the December quarter, a rise of 20% from the same quarter last year, and profits of $18.8 billion, a steady increase of 21%, with earnings per share of $2.48, up 22%. In terms of quick numbers, the number of daily active users doubled in the wake of the pandemic – from 75 million in April 2020 to 145 million in April 2021.

Despite its immense popularity, it’s not without its shortcomings. Microsoft Teams is feature rich yet falls short of some basic essentials that drive effective communication and collaboration. It’s also probably why several businesses are on the lookout for Microsoft Teams alternatives. 

• For one, it is limited in its use for large scale enterprises that have several cross-functional teams. It offers only about 30 private channels that can be a bottleneck for several communication workflows across large companies.
• Secondly, nuanced access control is not a well-thought out feature with Microsoft Teams. Rankling several industry leaders who have considered switching to Microsoft Teams, the absence of an evolved access and permission control has made it a rather unpopular option.

In this blog, we take a quick tour of 10 Microsoft Teams alternatives that offer an array of features beyond messaging and video conferencing.

1. Zoom

Primarily seen as a video conferencing tool with an instant messaging service, Zoom is equipped with a native cloud phone solution. 

• Integration with other tools and platforms: Available on iOS and Android, Zoom can host a large audience and has powerful integration capabilities. Zoom offers integration with other tools and platforms such as Slack, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams.
• User experience and ease of use: With a simple and intuitive interface, Zoom enables easy scheduling and joining of meetings from desktop and mobile devices.
• Security: Zoom provides several security and privacy features, such as end-to-end encryption for video meetings, password protection, and waiting rooms for meeting attendees.
• Customer support: Customers can access Zoom’s customer support through email, chat, or phone besides offering a comprehensive resource section that serves as a knowledge base. 
• Pricing: It offers a limited free plan with paid plans starting at $149.90/year (or $12.50 / month).
• The flipside: One thing that deters ease of use is that it is loaded with too many add-ons that may not particularly make financial sense for a small business. Also, one of the major cons of Zoom is the mandate to download the app, thus lacking browser only functionality. 

Read More: Why Is Infince A Better Choice For Safe Video Calling Than Zoom

2. Google Meet 

Google Meet is a video conferencing tool that allows users to have video meetings directly from their Google Calendar event, email invite, or Gmail.  

• Integration with other tools and platforms: Google Meet can be integrated with other Google tools such as Google Calendar and Google Drive and other third-party tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Slack.
• User experience and ease of use: It has a simple and user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use for both hosts and participants. The platform offers features such as screen sharing, real-time captions, and recording abilities, which enhance the user experience.
• Security and privacy features: Google Meet features end-to-end encryption for video meetings, two-factor authentication, and enterprise-grade security.
• Customer support and resources available: Google provides extensive support and resources to its users through the Google Meet Help Center.
• Pricing: Offers a free plan for starters with paid plans priced from $8/ user per month.
• The flipside: Browser support is limited, which means some users may need to rely on apps for a smoother experience. The platform does not provide advanced webinar features, such as Q&A sessions or polling, which could be a drawback for larger meetings.

Read More: 5 Workplace Innovations You Can Welcome with Video Conferencing

3.  Infince

Here’s how Infince Scores over other remote platforms. 

• Tailored for remote work: Infince is designed to cater to the needs of remote teams by centralizing communication, collaboration, and data management in a single platform. The platform is optimized for remote access, usage, and management, providing businesses with flexibility and control over their operations.
• Enhanced security: Infince uses the latest security protocols and encryption methods to ensure data privacy and protection from cyber threats. The platform is hosted on a private cloud infrastructure, which provides additional security layers compared to public cloud hosting used by Microsoft 365 or Google Meets.
• Cost-effective pricing: Infince offers scalable pricing plans suitable for businesses of all sizes and budgets. The pricing is transparent with no hidden costs, making it easy for businesses to budget and predict their expenses.
• High degree of customizability: Infince features highly customizable templates that businesses can tailor to match their brand identity. This allows businesses to create a professional look and feel for their platform without the need for expensive customization.
• Dedicated support: Infince provides users with dedicated 24/7 support via phone, email, or chat. This ensures that businesses always have access to help when they need it, improving the efficiency and productivity of remote teams. It is in fact a perfect alternative during Microsoft Cloud or Google Cloud outages.

4. Cisco Webex

• Integration: Integrates with multiple tools, including Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and Google Calendar.
• User Experience: Offers an easy-to-use interface, with features like screen sharing and virtual backgrounds.
• Security and Privacy: Provides industry-leading security measures and end-to-end encryption.
• Customer Support: Offers technical support through multiple channels, including phone and chat. 
• Pricing: Offers a free plan with paid plans ranging from $14.95/host per month.
• The flipside: Limited customization options and slightly higher pricing compared to other video conferencing platforms.

Read More: 6 Ways to Build a Secure File Sharing Practice Within Your Organization

5. ClickUp

• Integration: Integrates with popular tools such as Slack, Trello, and Google Calendar.
• User Experience: Offers a customizable interface, with various views and templates.
• Security and Privacy: Provides options like two-factor authentication and GDPR compliance.
• Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer support through email and live chat.
• Pricing: Comes with a free plan for unlimited users and paid versions starting at $5 per user/month. 
• The flipside: Steep learning curve and requires a longer setup time compared to other project management tools.

6. Chanty

• Integration: Integrates with G Suite and third-party apps like Zapier and Trello.
• User Experience: Offers a simple, clutter-free interface with features like threaded conversations and file sharing.
• Security and Privacy: Provides end-to-end encryption and compliance with GDPR.
• Customer Support: Offers support via email, chat, and phone, with a detailed knowledge base. 
• Pricing: Provides a free plan for up to 10 members and a paid plan with $3/user/month.
• The flipside: Lacks advanced features like screen sharing and video calling, and limited integrations compared to other team chat platforms.

7. Pumble

• Integration: Integrates with Google Drive, GitHub, Bitbucket, and Zapier.
• User Experience: Offers a simple, user-friendly interface with features like public and private channels and voice messaging.
• Security and Privacy: Provides end-to-end encryption and complies with GDPR.
• Customer Support: Offers 24/7 support through a dedicated team and a comprehensive knowledge base. 
• Pricing: Offers a free forever plan that works for the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. Paid plans start at $1.99 per user per month with access to most Pumble features. 
• The flipside: Limited integrations and lacks video conferencing capabilities compared to other team chat platforms.

Read More: 5 Tips To Effectively Manage Remote Teams During Challenging Times

8. Brosix

• Integration: Integrates with other tools via Zapier and offers API for custom integration.
• User Experience: Offers a user-friendly interface with features like group and screen sharing and a customizable chat environment.
• Security and Privacy: Provides end-to-end encryption and complies with EU data privacy laws.
• Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and live chat.
• Pricing:A forever free plan that works for small teams that are just getting started. Paid plans begin at $4 user per month.
• The flipside: Limited integrations compared to other team chat platforms and higher pricing compared to some competitors.7. Pumble:

• Integration: Integrates with Google Drive, GitHub, Bitbucket, and Zapier.
• User Experience: Offers a simple, user-friendly interface with features like public and private channels and voice messaging.
• Security and Privacy: Provides end-to-end encryption and complies with GDPR.
• Customer Support: Offers 24/7 support through a dedicated team and a comprehensive knowledge base. 
• Pricing: Offers a free forever plan that works for the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. Paid plans start at $1.99 per user per month with access to most Pumble features. 
• The flipside: Limited integrations and lacks video conferencing capabilities compared to other team chat platforms.

9. Zoho

• Integration: Offers integration with many popular tools, including G Suite, Salesforce, and Slack.
• User Experience: Offers a user-friendly interface with features like task management and a customizable dashboard.
• Security and Privacy: Provides industry-standard security measures and promotes data privacy.
• Customer Support: Offers support through phone, email, and chat, with a comprehensive knowledge base and user forum. 
• The flipside: Advanced features require higher-tier subscriptions, and some users may find the interface and navigation slightly overwhelming.

10. Slack

• Integration: Offers integration with various tools, including Google Drive, Zoom, and Trello.
• User Experience: Offers a user-friendly interface with features like channels and direct messaging, file sharing, and app management.
• Security and privacy: Provides various data security and privacy measures, including enterprise-level encryption and two-factor authentication.
• Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and chat, with a detailed knowledge base and user forum. 
• The flipside: Lack of threaded chats, and some users may find it challenging to locate specific conversations or messages

To Summarize

Remote work is gaining popularity with the various shifts in work culture. How companies strategize, evaluate and implement the right tools would define the path to their success. Where, some businesses might focus on improving work efficiency, others might depend on advanced tools and technologies to enhance work collaboration. However, a platform like Infince is built to help embrace the ever changing digital work environment and thrive with the rising technology advancements. 

Connect with us today to learn more about Infince!

Even as the pandemic unfolded, physical workspaces have started to become obsolete with remote work growing in popularity. A U.S. Census Bureau data reveals that the number of people primarily working remotely grew from 5.7 percent in 2019 (roughly 9 million people) to 17.9 percent in 2021. An Accenture’s 2021 Future of Work survey shows how a whopping 83 percent of employees indicated preferences for hybrid work, while 63 percent of high-growth companies are already implementing hybrid work models to enhance workplace productivity and nurture a culture of flexibility and openness.

With companies world over implementing remote work policies, how well are you covered? Being able to work remotely is a great way to go if you have the right tools. That said, is investing in a comprehensive remote work platform on your radar?

Let’s help you figure it all out in our detailed guide on remote work software and its uses. 

IN THIS GUIDE

• Defining a remote work platform
• Common myths of a remote work software debunked
• Why is a remote work platform essential for today’s digital workforce?
• What are the benefits of a remote work software?
• What are the challenges involved in implementing a remote work software?
• How does a remote work software drive employee experience?
• Why should Infince be your go-to other remote work platforms?
• Conclusion

First things first, let’s explore a few myths that are typically associated when the topic of remote work is discussed. Let’s explore a few.

Defining a Remote Work Platform

A remote work platform is a digital tool or platform that allows individuals or teams to work and collaborate on projects, tasks, and assignments remotely from various locations. They are typically equipped with communication tools, task management, file sharing, and video conferencing.

Common Myths of a Remote Work Software Debunked

1. Remote work brings down productivity of employees: Well, this is a big no. A remote work software is equipped to handle virtual communication and collaboration tasks effectively without compromising on efficiency, thus playing a significant role in driving employee productivity. With optimized workflows cutting down on time-intensive processes, remote work tools help build agile teams that are ready to take on the challenges of a future-ready workplace. As the complexities of the modern workforce increase, the time is now to think about a comprehensive remote work platform that handles the a to z of communication, connectivity, and collaboration and helps employees adapt to the evolving needs of a dynamic business workplace.

2. Remote work can leave room for communication gaps: This is yet another misconception that often gets tagged with remote workplaces. A remote work platform helps remote teammates collaborate effortlessly through sharing files on the go over the cloud, manage projects efficiently, and track progress reports frequently by offering an integrated view of several linked workflows. This ensures that cross-functional teams stay well connected and are not working in isolated silos besides fostering an integrated working environment where team members can track project statuses, leads, define tasks, and set deadlines.

3. Remote work demotivates employees: With workplace demographics continuing to shift, the use of remote collaboration tools is on the rise and for good reason. Particularly fuelled by the growing demands to increase employee productivity and cut costs, remote work platforms act as a source of motivation by reshaping the very outlook of work.

Now that we have debunked some myths, let’s define the elements that constitute a remote work platform and understand the benefits it brings to the corporate table. Precisely, a remote work software entails a robust, technological version (aka a digital workplace) of a physical workspace, that encompasses all the technologies that both employers and employees use to get work done in today’s workplace. Ranging from HR applications, e-mail communication tools, core business applications to  instant messaging and enterprise social media tools and virtual assistants, a comprehensive remote work platform consists of a suite of several applications that are meant to transform the employee experience. 

Why is a Remote Work Platform Essential for Today’s Digital Workforce?

In today’s digital workplace, remote work platforms are essential for organizations to ensure seamless communication, collaboration, and project management. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work platforms for many organizations. Remote work platforms provide a range of benefits to both employers and employees, including increased flexibility, reduced overhead costs, and improved work-life balance.

Remote work platforms enable employees to work collaboratively with their colleagues, thereby fostering teamwork and productivity. By using a remote work platform, employees can work on the same documents, share their ideas and collaborate on projects as if they were working in the same office.

What are the Benefits of a Remote Work Platform?

1. Greater employee retention and talent acquisition: A remote friendly work culture is a perk that any employee appreciates. Given that working remotely gives autonomy and flexibility to employees, there is a good chance that employees would opt for a lower paying job if they could work away from the office. Not just from the employee standpoint, employers also stand to gain with remote work as they get to hire top talent and indirectly save on business costs. 

2. Enhanced communication channels: Today’s digital workforce prefers modern communication channels that allows them to communicate on the go without having to gather in meetings that are all too time-consuming. 

3. Reduced costs: For employers in the digital age, investing in IT infrastructure and physical office workspaces may run into overhead costs in the long run. With fewer people in a physical office setup, organizations can cut down on their real estate footprint, reduce costs to run onsite business operations, including office space, equipment and travel reimbursement.

What are the Typical Challenges Involved in Implementing a Remote Work Software?

1. Steep learning curve: While a remote work software is composed of a bunch of applications serving distinct functions, it’s important for your remote work software to work as a unified platform that helps employees have a delightful employee experience. However, this comes with a certain trade-off. To make the most of remote work, it’s important for employees to be tech-savvy and invest time and energy on getting a grasp of multiple tools, no matter how simple they seem. 

2. Integration issues: It’s important to ensure that your technology teams work in cohesion with your infrastructure management teams to get through the traps of siloed implementations and disparate ownership. 

3. Data security and porting: While employees work with scores of data that gets exchanged across all remote work collaboration tools, it’s imperative to keep a tab on secure data sharing and porting. Switching and porting data between multiple apps leads to significant time losses. For instance, a typical day of a remote worker would involve attending a meeting over a video conference on a separate application while also writing an email via an email tool. So the need to maintain a unified view of data is important. 

How does a Remote Work Software Drive Employee Experience?

In addition to boosting productivity, remote work platforms also drive employee experience. These platforms help employees feel more connected to their colleagues and their organization, even when working remotely. Communication tools such as chat, video conferencing, and messaging platforms facilitate a sense of community and enable workers to build relationships with co-workers and managers.

Remote work software also contributes to work-life balance for employees. They allow workers to work from anywhere, anytime, thereby reducing the stress and time involved in commuting. Additionally, these platforms provide employees with greater autonomy, resulting in improved job satisfaction.

Remote work software is essential for organizations that want to stay competitive and provide the best experience for their employees. By using remote work software, businesses can empower their remote workforce to work collaboratively and productively, regardless of where they are in the world. Moreover, remote work platforms drive employee experience, enable work-life balance, and foster a sense of community among remote workers.

Must-Have Features of a Comprehensive Remote Work Software

We list some must-have features that should comprise an ideal remote work software. While investing in one, be sure to check on them.

1. Collaboration apps: Since collaboration is the lifeblood of remote work, your remote work platform needs to be fully equipped to facilitate video meetings, live chat, and bring up a comprehensive employee directory for quick lookup.

2. Productivity tools: Contextual tools that raise productivity such as spreadsheets, presentations, calendars, and calendars are an absolute must. 

3. Flexible integrations and mobile compatibility: Your remote work platform should be capable of unifying all your existing and future digital systems. This gives you an inherent edge because you are not only able to centralize the technology architecture but also indirectly increase enterprise-level flexibility. This helps businesses to scale up, or down, according to dynamic business needs.

4. Secure cloud file sharing: To support a workforce that’s spread across the globe, your remote work tool should be hosted on the cloud, facilitating employees to to work from any location and from any device, with just a basic connection to the internet. Besides being cloud-based, the tool should also have cloud storage to store all important business files and documents in order to make it easier for employees to access the latest versions of files, whether they are in the office or working from home.

Why should Infince be your go-to over other remote work platforms?

The following features make Infince truly beneficial for customers and offers them a competitive advantage over other remote work software. 

1. Comprehensive and customizable: Infince offers a comprehensive suite of tools and features to facilitate remote work across multiple departments in an organization. The platform can be customized to cater to specific business needs, ensuring a personalized and productive workflow.

2. Affordable and scalable: The pricing of Infince is transparent and budget-friendly, with no hidden costs or fees. The platform is scalable and can be adapted according to the size of the organization, making it accessible to small start-ups as well as large enterprises.

3. Secure and reliable: Infince is built with enterprise-grade security protocols to ensure data confidentiality and protection. The platform also ensures reliable access to data and applications with 99.9% uptime.

4. User-friendliness: Infince is designed to be user-friendly, with a user interface that is easy to navigate and understand. The platform is also compatible across multiple devices, making it convenient for users to work remotely from anywhere in the world.

5. Collaborative and efficient: Infince fosters collaboration among team members, making it easier to work together and achieve goals. The platform enables efficient project management, workflow automation, and streamlined communication among team members, resulting in improved productivity and efficiency.

Conclusion

As the modern workplace continues to evolve, and employee expectations shift, organizations that do not embrace the digital workplace risk falling behind. With Infince, you can experience seamless, integrated and intuitive collaboration with the perfect remote work software at play! Get in touch with us for a free demo, and we would be glad to chip in!

Despite the soaring popularity of virtual meetings since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers point toward the concern that virtual meetings aren’t as effective as the traditional, in-person meetings. 

“Part of the problem might be that we’re worse at taking turns in virtual conversations than in physical ones.” (Stanford University, 2022)

“The number of meetings grew by 7.4% between June 2020 and December 2021, but the meetings were typically of low quality.” (University of Cambridge Judge Business School, 2022)

Many employees are annoyed with the amount of time lost due to technical issues, delayed meetings, irrelevant agenda, off-topic discussions, unpreparedness, and loud background noises. These challenges, however, cannot deny the fact that virtual meetings are here to stay. Gartner data shows that by 2025, 50% of all enterprise virtual events will be held on the video meeting platforms commonly used by organizations today, proving that video meetings are not likely to disappear from our workplace anytime soon.  

What does it take to run an effective virtual meeting that facilitates collaboration, engagement, and communication between in-office and remote teams? 

Common Challenges in Hosting Virtual Meetings

The use of virtual meetings in workplace can raise several concerns, some of the most commonly cited issues are discussed below:

• It can be difficult to pick up on non-verbal cues such as body language and gestures in virtual meetings. For instance, the meeting host or speaker may not be able to gauge whether other members of the meeting are puzzled, distracted or have lost interest.
• Video meetings can lead to Zoom fatigue, a unique kind of exhaustion that occurs when people participate in video meetings for an extended time period. The constant need to focus on screens, lack of breaks, and the difficulty in understanding non-verbal or social cues lead to fatigue and reduced productivity.
• Technical glitches that you have no control over, such as server or internet connection outages, microphone failure, audio problems, crashing of shared applications, or the trouble of logging into a virtual meeting. 
• Many people prefer face-to-face, in-person interaction instead of virtual team meetings. Remote team members may not get enough time to bond with each other and build formal relationships. The result can be a lack of mutual trust which, in turn, can impact your team’s productivity.
• Scheduling virtual meetings could be a challenge when you want remote teams working from multiple locations and different time zones to join the meeting at a reasonable hour.

Best Practices & Tips to Make Your Video Meetings More Effective

1. Turn your camera on during virtual calls

In a prolonged remote work environment, your employees get only little in-person face time with their colleagues, supervisors, or managers. Keeping the camera on during virtual meetings will make your video conferences more accessible, exciting, and intuitive for participants. 

By observing the facial expressions and body language of the participants during a video call, you can pick up contextual cues that are often lost over audio calls or text-based modes of communication such as chat or email. Encouraging your team members to turn on their cameras during video meetings can make them feel more connected, engaged, and productive.   

2. Use interactive tools to increase engagement

Utilizing interactive tools like polls, surveys, quizzes, and breakout rooms during virtual meetings will allow participants to get involved as if they are all in the same space.

Breakout rooms are one of the most popular features in Infince video meeting platform that helps create a dynamic virtual meeting experience. Meeting organizers or hosts can use the breakout rooms to divide participants into smaller groups for focused discussions and effective collaboration. 

Infince video meeting software allows you to create and launch polls/ quizzes during a virtual meeting and gather the responses from your participants. You can frame customized questions for your polls and see the results in real-time to make informed decisions or next steps. 

Using the Raise a Hand feature in the Infince video meeting platform, a participant can notify the meeting host that they want to discuss a point without disrupting the flow of the meeting. All these tools promote better participation and collaboration and provide valuable feedback to the meeting organizers.

3. Allow short breaks between each meeting

Back-to-back virtual meetings can be stressful and decrease your ability to focus and engage. Participants should be encouraged to step away from their screens and take a short break in between successive meeting schedules. It prevents stress from building up. 

Here are a few tips to make your moments of respite successful:

• View breaks away from your computer will help shift your mind and re-energize before joining the next meeting.
• A short meditation break or a simple physical activity such as a stroll will help you feel refreshed and recharged when you start your next meeting.
• Before scheduling a video call, do check if you really require a meeting to discuss the issue or if it can be solved through email, live chat, or document collaboration. 
• Make your meetings more intentional. Create and share an agenda ahead of time, think about who attends the meeting, start and stop on time, and transition to a five-minute recap at the end of the call. 
• Raise your hand, polls and quizzes, breakout rooms, and other interactive tools are great ways to keep your participants involved and elicit creative and strategic conversations.  

4. Find the right balance between virtual and in-person meetings

Despite returning to normal after the pandemic, virtual calls continue to be a staple of the daily business routines. Though virtual meetings cannot completely replace face-to-face meetings for good, they are likely to remain as a part of our working lives as most businesses adjust to a hybrid way of working. 

Here are a few tips to balance both in-person and virtual meetings:

• Choose the meeting type based on the topic or context. If you’re reaching out to a client for a quick check-in, a virtual meeting would suffice. If you want to discuss a major portfolio change or strategy adjustments, it’s better to meet in-person, if possible.
• Schedule virtual meetings and invite participants ahead of time to best manage your time and theirs, especially when you’re collaborating with remote teams located in different time zones.  
• Gauge the complexity level of the issue you’re going to discuss. If you’re tackling a thorny problem that’s difficult to comprehend or is emotionally complex, it’s better to go for an in-person meeting. 
• Finally, choose the meeting type that would be more inclusive. Consider your participants’ availability (proximity) for an in-person meeting. Check if they have a tight schedule that makes it difficult to find a common time for an in-person meeting. In this case, scheduling a virtual meeting can ensure maximum participation and inclusion.  

The Final Word

In the post-pandemic era, the workplace could mean different things for different people. With the erratic work arrangements across companies, individual teams, and industry segments, workers need video meetings more than ever.

The real challenge for employers now is to foster true collaboration in a hybrid workplace setting by balancing remote and in-office employee experiences – and a video meeting platform is the key to achieving that. 

With Infince, your organization can experience all the benefits and features of a modern digital workplace. Enable your team to work together from anywhere, using any device with our comprehensive virtual meeting software. Get started today.

Connect with our experts today or Request a Free Demo!

Definition and Evolution of Digital Workplace Platforms

Digital workplace platforms have evolved tremendously over the past few years, with the modern workplace requiring much more than just a basic communication tool. In a dynamic business environment where change is the only constant, employees require a cohesive digital experience to collaborate, access important information, communicate with colleagues seamlessly, and manage their workload effectively.

As a result, modern digital workplace platforms now provide a range of features that enable businesses to meet these needs. A suite of applications that enable businesses to function remotely, collaborate online, and have access to cloud-based tools to run day-to-day operations, digital workplace platforms include communication tools such as email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and project management tools. Analogously, these platforms act as virtual offices where employees can share files, communicate with colleagues, and complete work tasks. A digital workplace platform is like a toolbox that provides everything you need to get the job done from anywhere on any device, examples of which include HR databases, knowledge management systems, and customer relationship management software.

Read more: What is a Digital Workplace: A Complete Guide! 

Employee Experience: The Key Driver 

Several studies have confirmed that a positive employee experience leads to higher engagement, productivity, retention, and even profitability. For example, according to a 2023 Gartner Survey, 83% of HR leaders believe employee experience is crucial to their organization’s success. On the other hand, companies with poor employee experience see high turnover rates, low productivity, a bad work culture, and even customer dissatisfaction.

For a digital workspace to translate to building a positive employee experience, personalization, mobile accessibility, and ease of use are some critical ingredients.

1. Personalization involves tailoring the digital workspace experience to each employee’s unique needs and preferences – this can be achieved through customized dashboards, relevant information feeds, or custom notifications. 

2. Mobile accessibility means enabling employees to work from anywhere, anytime, on any device. An easy-to-use interface and accessibility from anywhere ensure employees can navigate the digital workplace platform without friction, frustration, or confusion. This also contributes to shorter learning curves and lesser training mandates.

Robust Integration with Third-Party Applications: A Must-have

According to a study conducted by the Aberdeen Group, companies that integrate their enterprise applications experience a 20% increase in productivity. This includes everything from marketing, sales, and supply chain management to HR and finance. Key integration capabilities that need to be present in a digital workplace include compatibility, security, and scalability. Compatibility means having the ability to integrate with a variety of applications, ensuring that you have access to your entire suite of tools. Security is important to ensure sensitive data remains safe and protected. Finally, scalability refers to the ability to add or remove apps as needed without disrupting the current workflow.

The Three Cs – Cloud, Collaboration, and Communication

Microsoft reported a 27% increase in revenue from investing in intelligent cloud, with an overall revenue uptick of 39% attached to the cloud. If you want to take a leaf from their book, you know where to put your money. Cloud-hosting is your best bet for a digital workplace platform especially because it safeguards important information, reduces the risk of data loss, increases security, and of course, allows your employees to share and access files from a central location, lending to a simple and seamless experience. Following suit, communication, and collaboration are key elements that have to fall in place if a digital workplace platform is considered successful.

Read more: Role of a Digital Workplace Platform in Hybrid Workplace

Adherence to Regulatory Compliance and Security: The Much-needed Protocol

Adherence to security and compliance policies is critical to the success of digital workplace platforms. Companies that comply with regulations and protect user data enjoy higher levels of trust and customer loyalty, leading to increased revenue and growth. It is essential to prioritize security and compliance to safeguard against the cost and reputational damage of a security breach. The implementation of security features like single sign-on, two-factor authentication, and data encryption has become crucial for digital workplace platforms to protect sensitive information. According to a report by Verizon, over 80% of data breaches are caused by weak or stolen credentials, which can be prevented by using these security measures. Companies like Slack and Microsoft Teams have successfully implemented these features, resulting in improved security and increased adoption rates. In fact, Microsoft Teams reported a record 2.7 billion meeting minutes in a single day in March 2020, attributed to the platform’s security measures.

Embracing Web3 Technologies

Gartner predicts that by 2024, AI will have automated as much as 75% of the manual work involved in project management-related administrative tasks. Better yet, a study by Accenture found that AI adoption could increase workplace productivity by as much as 40%.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning learning (ML) are becoming increasingly important in the digital workplace, and new platforms are designed to leverage these technologies to enhance productivity and automate routine tasks. One example of how these technologies help personalize user experiences is through intelligent recommendations. By analyzing employee behavior, such as the types of tasks they complete, the documents they access, and the apps they use, ML algorithms can suggest relevant content, information, and tools that are unique to each user. This personalized approach helps employees work more efficiently and effectively by streamlining workflows and reducing the time spent searching for information.

Connect with our experts know more about Infince

Introduction

Employee engagement is a crucial factor in the success of any business, and Infince is a leading employee engagement platform designed to provide a centralized hub for communication, collaboration, and performance management, making it easier for organizations to improve employee engagement and achieve their goals.

IN THIS GUIDE

Infince is an employee engagement platform curated to keep you connected to your work and team from anywhere, at any time. With its mobile app, Infince makes it easy for you to stay connected and collaborate with your team, even if you’re working remotely or on the go. In this guide, you’ll understand the nitty-gritty of employee engagement software to the benefits of using Infince’s tools and resources, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how Infince can help your organization achieve its goals.

But, first things first!

What is an employee engagement platform?

An employee engagement platform is a tailor-made digital solution that enables organizations to improve the level of engagement and satisfaction among their employees. This platform comes equipped with a suite of features and tools designed to enhance the overall employee experience that includes communication resources, recognition, and reward systems, surveys, and pulse poll.

The goal of an employee engagement platform:

• Aimed at improving employee retention rates, boosting productivity, and reducing absenteeism.
• Foster better relationships between employees and their managers, 
• Provide employees a voice in the decision-making process.
• Help increase employee morale, reduce turnover, and improve overall business performance
• Businesses can establish a culture of openness and transparency, leading to higher levels of employee morale and job satisfaction.

Read more: Turning Employee Resignations to Employee Retention in Modern Workplace!

Unlock the benefits of Employee Engagement

Nearly one-third (32%) of US organizations have seen an increase in employee engagement as a result of their engagement initiatives. Employee engagement initiatives have been found to lead to a 2.5x increase in post-engagement performance, a 3.5x improvement in job satisfaction, and an impressive 25% reduction in absenteeism.

Additionally, 91% of employees who are engaged in the workplace report feeling a strong connection to their employer. With an employee engagement platform, organizations can empower their employee base and help them to develop the skills and competencies that will enable them to reach their full potential. Such platforms like Infince provide the necessary tools for fostering collaboration, engaging in team building, and improving communication and productivity in the workplace. 

By unlocking the benefits of employee engagement, US companies can expect to see improved morale, better job satisfaction, and improved productivity — all of which will contribute to an overall boost in performance.

Types of Employee Engagement Platforms

There are a wide variety of employee engagement platforms available, each designed to meet the specific needs of various organizations. Some of the most popular types of employee engagement platforms include

• Virtual Workspaces: Virtual workspaces allow employees to access their work from any location, helping to foster collaboration, reduce turnover, and increase productivity.

• Social Media Platforms: Social media platforms are used to build relationships, encourage engagement, and provide employees with a platform to share ideas and collaborate on projects.

• Knowledge Management Platforms: Knowledge management platforms are used to store, organize, and share information among teams. This helps to improve communication, reduce redundancies, and create a better overall work environment.

By providing employees with the tools they need to succeed and fostering a positive work environment, an employee engagement platform like Infince can help to increase productivity, reduce turnover, and create an environment in which employees are highly motivated and engaged.

Top Benefits of Employee Engagement Platforms for Business Success

Employee engagement platforms are critical for businesses to remain successful in the modern workplace. By utilizing an effective platform, businesses can create a stronger sense of connection between employers and employees, facilitate collaboration, and promote a positive work environment. Furthermore, there are several tangible benefits of using employee engagement platforms, including improved morale, increased productivity, and better customer experience.

Here are the irresistible benefits you need to consider:

1. Communication Tools: Custom dashboards such as chat boards, video conferencing, and file sharing are essential features of any employee engagement platform. These tools allow for efficient communication between the employer and employees, enabling employees to quickly and easily ask questions, get feedback, and share resources.

2. Employee Feedback Mechanisms: Employee feedback mechanisms, such as surveys, polls, and employee reviews, are an important part of any employee engagement platform. These mechanisms provide employers with valuable insights into employee satisfaction, morale, and productivity, allowing them to make necessary adjustments to their business practices.

3. Performance Management: Performance management tools allow employers to track and evaluate employee performance. These tools enable employers to set objectives and goals, measure progress, and provide feedback to employees. According to a study by Gallup, companies with effective performance management systems have 24% higher profit margins than those without.

4. Recognition and Rewards Systems: Recognition and rewards systems are another essential feature of employee engagement platforms. These systems allow employers to recognize and reward employees for their efforts and accomplishments. According to the same study by Gallup, companies with effective recognition and rewards systems have 22% higher productivity than those without.

5. Gamification and Engagement Activities: Gamification and engagement activities can be used to foster team collaboration and encourage employees to participate in activities that benefit the company. Examples of gamification and engagement activities include team building activities, competitions, and virtual events.

6. Personalized Dashboards: Personalized dashboards are a great way to make the employee engagement platform more user-friendly by providing employees with a personalized view of their tasks and progress. Dashboards can be tailored to each individual employee, providing them with a better understanding of their own performance and that of their colleagues.

Read more: How Does The Intranet Contribute To Digital Employee Experience

Experience Seamless Collaboration with Infince: The Ultimate Remote Work Platform

In a remote work environment, it is especially important that employees feel engaged and motivated through a robust remote work platform. With the right strategies, an organization can create a culture where remote work is not only accepted but embraced.

According to US data from 2022, employee engagement is essential for organizational success. This is especially true in a remote work environment, where managers must take additional steps to ensure employee engagement. Companies have found that positive engagement strategies such as encouraging wellness, hosting virtual meetings, and fostering personal connections have helped to keep remote employees motivated and engaged. The best way to gauge employee engagement levels is to ask them directly about their work and passion levels.

Importance of Employee Engagement in Remote Work

The level of employee engagement has a direct relationship to an organisation’s performance. Engaged employees are more productive, which leads to greater earnings and higher customer satisfaction. Additionally, engaged employees are less likely to leave the organisation, leading to improved job security and less need for costly recruitment processes. Finally, engaged employees are more likely to be creative and come up with innovative solutions to business problems.

Benefits of a Remote Work Platform for Employee Engagement

A remote work platform can be a great tool for enhancing employee engagement. A platform can facilitate tasks such as setting up video calls, providing access to documents, and allowing collaboration over long distances. Additionally, a platform can also enable coworkers to stay in touch with one another, creating a sense of unity and connectedness.

Strategies for Enhancing Employee Engagement in Remote Work

Organisations should strive to create a culture of engagement, even in remote work environments. Here are a few strategies to help enhance engagement:

• Provide frequent feedback: Remote workers often feel disconnected from their teams. Providing regular feedback can help bridge this gap.

• Set clear expectations: It’s important to set expectations for tasks and deadlines. This will help employees stay focused and motivated.

• Encourage collaboration: Collaboration can help generate ideas and foster a team atmosphere, even when working remotely.

• Offer incentives: Incentives can help motivate employees and encourage them to do their best work.

By taking the right steps, organisations can create an engaging remote work environment that helps employees feel motivated, connected, and productive.

Bottom Line

Organizations today are more competitive than ever, so they need to rethink their strategies. In order to progress, organizations need to prioritize their employees’ wellbeing, and create an environment of engagement. If organizations fall short of creating engagement, employees are likely to switch jobs until they find a suitable workplace. To ensure that employees remain engaged, organizations must take proper measures.

Here is a quote by Annette Franz on employee engagement:

“Employee engagement cannot be a strategy because engagement comes from within the employee. It’s the emotional connection or commitment that an employee has to the organization that then causes the employee to want to put forth the additional effort to ensure the organization and the brand succeed.”

This quote is an important reminder that employee engagement is more than just a strategy; it’s something that comes from within the employee and is characterized by an emotional connection to the organization. This connection can then lead to greater levels of effort and dedication, resulting in a more successful organization and brand.

Recognition is a very important aspect of employee engagement. However, manual recognition can be time-consuming and lack transparency. To that end, organizations can take advantage with Infince, a rock-solid employee engagement platform that collects and records data in real-time to avoid disputes and inaccuracies.

Infince also recognizes employees immediately after they accomplish something to ensure that recognition efforts are effective. With its range of essential features and support for remote work, Infince makes it easier for organizations to improve employee engagement and achieve their goals.