Unlocking hybrid work success

Today’s workforce expects flexibility. According to a 2023 report by McKinsey, 87% of employees offered at least some remote work take the opportunity, and many consider it a key factor in deciding where to work. In a tight job market, especially in tech-driven cities like Toronto, companies that resist hybrid models risk alienating top talent before the first interview.

But enabling hybrid work environments isn’t just about offering flexible schedules or remote access – it hinges on the technology infrastructure behind it all.

At Plexus Solutions, we understand that hybrid work isn’t a simple toggle between home and office – it’s a complex, evolving model that requires thoughtful IT strategy, strong security, and the right set of tools. This newsletter explores how businesses can build secure and scalable hybrid environments by leveraging modern IT tools and services.

The role of IT in hybrid work

Hybrid work relies on two foundational IT pillars:

• Infrastructure backbone: A cloud-ready, secure network ensures employees can work from anywhere without disruption. Key elements include cloud services, scalable remote access, VPNs, secure authentication, and disaster recovery planning.
• Device management: With employees using a mix of devices in various locations, managing the increasing number of endpoints is critical. This includes mobile device management (MDM), automated updates, remote support, access controls, and secure onboarding/offboarding processes.

Security in a hybrid setup

A hybrid work model expands your office perimeter – and with that comes new vulnerabilities.

To secure a hybrid workforce, businesses must adopt a layered, proactive approach. Our recommendations are:

VPNs & zero trust architecture: While VPNs provide secure remote access, they should be paired with a zero trust approach – one that continuously verifies users, devices, and access requests, regardless of location.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an essential layer of protection to user accounts, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorised access from compromised passwords.

Endpoint protection: With a distributed workforce, every laptop, phone, and tablet becomes a potential target. Centralised endpoint protection ensures all devices are monitored, updated, and secured from a single platform.

Data backup & recovery: Cyber threats and accidental data loss can happen anywhere. Regular, automated backups, combined with a tested recovery plan, ensures business continuity even in the face of disruptions.

Tools that enable efficiency

In hybrid work environments, the right tools are essential to keep teams productive, collaborative and efficient. Our high-level recommendations are:

Cloud collaboration: Platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Slack enable real-time document collaboration, file sharing, and team communication – anytime, anywhere.

Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM): RMM tools provide IT teams with the ability to monitor, manage, and support devices and systems remotely, ensuring issues are identified and addressed proactively, reducing downtime.

Project & communication platforms: Tools like Trello, Asana, and Microsoft Teams bring teams together to manage projects, track progress, and maintain clear lines of communication, ensuring alignment across remote and in-office teams.

Virtual desktops: Virtual Desktops enable employees to securely access their full desktop environment from any device, ensuring a consistent and secure experience, whether working from home or on the go.

IT’s strategic role

The role of IT in a hybrid work model goes far beyond just providing support – it’s about creating an IT environment that enhances business operations, supports growth, and removes the burden of IT from daily operations. Here’s how IT plays a key role in shaping the future of work:

• Training & support: Continuous training programs and support ensure that employees are empowered to use technology effectively and that issues are resolved quickly.
• Standardised setups: Consistent setups across devices and systems create a predictable, reliable work environment, ensuring smooth transitions and easy scalability.
• Scalability: IT systems must be designed to grow or shrink with the business. Scalable infrastructure allows organisations to quickly adjust their hybrid work environment, adding or removing users, devices, and services without missing a beat. 

As businesses adapt to hybrid work, a thoughtful, well-executed IT strategy becomes the key to unlocking success. By embracing the right tools, securing your systems, and treating IT as a strategic partner, organisations can create a seamless and productive work environment for all employees, whether in the office, at home, or anywhere in between.

Plexus Solutions is a managed IT services provider in Toronto committed to helping SME businesses build a secure, efficient, and scalable hybrid work infrastructure. If you would like to discuss your IT environment or strategy, reach out via our website or directly at info@plexussolutions.ca.