Whether introducing a formal flex work program or simply allowing employees or contractors to workshift on an ad hoc basis, companies should define organizational parameters in consultation with IT, human resources, real estate, sustainability, legal, and union leadership. Best practice considerations in defining a workshifting strategy include:

Define worker eligibility

While many job roles can be performed by working remotely, some need to remain on site. Similarly, workshifting isn't right for every worker; you should define criteria to identify those who are most capable of remaining productive and engaged in a remote scenario.

Set schedule parameters

Will you allow unlimited workshifting or set a minimum required time for people to spend in the office? You may want to set parameters for the number of people within a given group who can workshift on the same day, or specify days of the week when everyone is required to be on site.

Support and train managers

Managers will need training on how to manage people by productivity and performance rather than by time and attendance, using the same set of criteria regardless of whether people work remotely or on site.

Establish workshifting practices

People who workshift should maintain regular work hours to prevent burnout. To function effectively, they also need regular interaction with colleagues to share information and best practices, access training, form mentoring relationships and facilitate team building.

Determine resources needed

Wherever employees and contractors work, a dedicated workspace, office supplies, high-speed broadband and a VoIP softphone need to be considered. The company or the individual can provide their computing device; additional peripherals such as printers and scanners may also be needed. Workshifting individuals should have secure access to applications and collaboration tools including easy online meetings and a file sharing service.

The value of workshifting to both organizations and people and makes it a key workplace strategy for every type of enterprise. Citrix workshifting solutions and best practices provide a flexible yet controlled framework to implement the right workshifting and business continuity policies for your organization.

Next: Discover business continuity

(*)register to access