A survey of 317 CFOs and finance leaders conducted by research and advisory company Gartner, Inc. revealed that close to 75 percent will transition at least five percent of their on-site workforce to permanent remote positions following the COVID-19 pandemic.
CFOs have started the transition to remote work by implementing flexible work schedules, and are planning to implement cost-cutting measures where possible: 20 percent of respondents said they have already deferred on-premise technology spend, with an additional 12 percent planning to do so. An additional 13 percent of respondents noted they had trimmed down real estate expenses, with another nine percent planning looking into further cost reductions within this area in the coming months.
The data clearly reveals how the crisis will ultimately change the way companies do business. CFOs pressured to reign in costs have realized that remote work is a creative and effective way to minimize COVID-19’s negative impact on their operations.
These business leaders have recognized the importance of technology in making remote work possible for a wider variety of positions than ever before. Companies have equipped their remote workers with laptops and have shifted to online collaboration tools such as video conferencing apps and project management platforms. Employees working from home are given access to files through their company’s secure Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Cybersecurity is critical to remote work
With cybercriminals taking advantage of the current environment to steal credentials via unsecured networks, Nashville-based cybersecurity service provider ImageQuest says cybersecurity is critical to remote work, now more than ever. ImageQuest conducts training sessions in Nashville, TN, Louisville, KY, and Bowling Green, KY to keep employees up to speed with current cybersecurity best practices. ImageQuest also offers additional IT security services:
- Security Assessment. Current capabilities are evaluated by ImageQuest’s team of cybersecurity specialists and will recommend a cybersecurity plan based on the company’s needs and budget.
- Managed Detection and Response. Networks are monitored 24/7. ImageQuest analyzes incidents and rapidly responds to security cases.
- User Access Control. Tailored access is designed to protect systems from malicious software.
Vendor Security Review. ImageQuest helps businesses evaluate the benefits and risks of the security with a potential vendor’s product or service.
This should supplement clear and easy-to-follow work-from-home policies, which include using complex passwords, changing passwords frequently, updating operating systems, and secure WiFi access points.
Cybersecurity threats could cause significant disruptions to remote work environments. If you are looking for a cybersecurity service expert in Nashville, Louisville, or Bowling Green that can help you navigate the current landscape, visit ImageQuest online or call 888.979.2679 for more information.