Optimized Networks for an Agile Workplace

The physical hardware will still be limited to one router, but if one path is jeopardized, it won’t bring down the entire network.

3. Data security. As companies prepare to digitize operations, data security cannot be overlooked. Establish profiles for devices operating on your network and account for all employee and visitor users. Also consider identity management. This approach enables organizations to comply with regulations that require businesses to track user activity, like those currently in place in Europe. And, make sure there are guidelines in place that extend specific privileges to users as they utilize personal and professional devices on the network. If you allow the employee to access corporate email from a personal smartphone, for example, ensure they comply with company policies and do not keep this data in personal storage.

4. Telephony. Technology upgrades can be a significant financial investment, so it’s a good idea to make cuts within your existing IT budget when possible. One of the easiest and most common solutions is telephony. The telephone was once the primary tool for instant communication, but today, more than half of Americans have ditched their landline. Nearly 40 percent of the workforce is now comprised of millennials who grew up with instant messenger and social media. There will be 1.75 billion mobile workers globally by 2020, accounting for 42 percent of the global workforce. And, 95 percent of Americans own a mobile phone. Ask yourself: Do your employees still need a desk phone? Increasingly, companies are opting out of land lines and investing in multi-modal communication strategies to accommodate an influx of digital natives into the workplace. And, similar to the Wi-Fi system, foregoing desk phones provides greater ease and flexibility when reconfiguring the office layout—no need to deal with pesky cables.

Often, the biggest hurdle to implementing significant IT upgrades is justifying the cost to traditionalist leaders. In my experience, up-front costs often generate a return on investment in unexpected ways. At my company, Steelcase, we were happy to find some unexpected benefits when we optimized our campus in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Following the upgrades, we experienced a marked increase in employees who felt the space enabled them to better collaborate, work more efficiently and spark creative ideas. An overwhelming 70 percent of our workforce agreed our optimized, digitally-centric space helps our company attract and retain talent. While we did find long-term, hard cost savings associated with optimized space management, we found the impact these changes had on our people, processes and culture were even more valuable.

In today’s interconnected business world, network optimization is essential for practically every business. As technology continues to evolve, these changes will allow for greater flexibility and adaptability. Change is never convenient, but in the long run, your people and your workplace are your greatest assets. When organizations build synergies between people, workspace and technology, they'll be better positioned to drive real business growth.