IT training key to successful remote working

FLEXIBLE working is being offered by more firms across the North West than ever before but a lack of training means they’re not getting the best from remote workers.

A new BT Business backed report from The Centre for Future Studies shows that although almost three quarters of small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are offering staff some form of flexible working a lack of appropriate IT skills is causing frustration to both employer and employee.

More than 60% of firms said that they were unable to exploit existing technology to create a more sophisticated and revolutionary form of flexible working, while 91% of managers said they hadn’t received any training on IT requirements of remote workers.

Around 70% said that specific training was not supplied for those working from home yet 43% were dissatisfied with the advanced IT skills of employees working out of the office.

According to the report, SMEs need to move beyond just offering flexibity to offering technology that enables them to work while on the move.

Gary McLean, BT local business regional director for the North West, said: “The future of competitive business for SMEs in the North West relies on employers and employees having a good grasp of technology.

“Businesses of all sizes should work together to ensure that SMEs are equipped with the correct skills to use technology to its full benefit.”