The growing popularity of remote and hybrid working amidst the pandemic has not only alleviated many issues caused by a slowing global economy, it has also shone a spotlight on brand new problems that employers might not have noticed in the past, which is potentially insufficient internet connections. Having workers at home meant some employers were relying on the internet speed of their workers to deliver up-to-date and quality work to ensure business continuity.
Cisco’s Broadband Index revealed that approximately 85 percent of their respondents said that broadband connection is important to them, with nearly half or 48 percent of the workforce relying on their home internet in order to work from home or run their own business.
The main issue that is being faced by employers and employees is that internet speeds can vary greatly based on location. As such, employees working under poor internet connections will experience a major drop in productivity as they struggle to download or upload work related materials. If remote or hybrid work arrangements are expected continue in the near future, 75 percent of workers said that broadband services will significant upgrades in order to support the new ways of working.
According to Cisco, some employees have taken things into their own hands, with up to43 percent of respondents to their survey stating that they intend to upgrade their broadband connection within the next 12 months.
What Can Employers Do?
With remote and hybrid working becoming the norm, employees now expect employers to provide them with assistance in setting up the home/remote workspace. This includes help with implementing better internet connectivity. On the employer’s side, adopting the right technology can help to smooth the implementation process.
Governments are also pressured to make legislative changes in order to improve internet connectivity, with 75 percent saying they would like to see the government accelerate plans for this. According to Cisco’s report, governments can establish broadband policies and programs to encourage competition, drive investments, expand its reach.
