In the office, employees have everything they need within reach: high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, office supplies, and reliable tech. However, when working from home, those essentials might not be as easily available. If you have remote workers, make sure they have the following gear.
Laptop
For most employees, their laptop is where they’ll spend the majority of their day, whether they’re responding to emails, attending virtual meetings, or working on projects. The right laptop should be lightweight, portable, and have enough power to handle daily tasks without lag. Generally, you'll want a laptop with at least 8 GB of RAM and a processor that is Intel Core i5 or higher.
It’s also crucial to ensure that your employees’ laptops have the necessary security measures in place, such as encryption and virtual private network (VPN) access, to protect any sensitive company information.
Computer monitor
While laptops are great for portability, the small screen size can often be a limiting factor for productivity. Having more screen real estate can make a significant difference in how your employees work. Providing them with an additional computer monitor, or even two if needed, allows for easier multitasking and reduces eye strain.
Webcam
A webcam is essential for remote workers who need to attend virtual meetings or video calls. Although many laptops come with built-in cameras, investing in a higher-quality external webcam can offer better clarity and sound quality, which is particularly important for client-facing roles. There are a wide range of webcams offering resolutions from 720p to 4K, so choose one that fits your budget and your employees' needs and device compatibility.
Headset
Clear communication is crucial when working remotely, especially when collaborating with teams or participating in virtual meetings. A comfortable, noise-canceling headset allows employees to engage in calls without distractions from background noise. Look for a headset with a good microphone to ensure voice clarity and a comfortable fit for long hours of use. Wireless models are also a great option for ensuring mobility and avoiding tangled cords. A quality headset helps employees stay focused and communicate effectively with minimal interruptions.
Mouse
Whether your team is working on detailed design projects or navigating spreadsheets, a mouse offers more precision and comfort than a touchpad. Consider ergonomic designs to reduce wrist strain and promote better posture. For employees who spend long hours on the computer, an ergonomic mouse can be a game-changer in terms of comfort and preventing repetitive stress injuries.
External storage
Data security and reliable backups are important for remote workers. External storage devices, such as external hard drives or SSDs, provide additional storage space for files, backup copies of important documents, and media files that may be too large to keep on a laptop. Not only does external storage increase your team’s capacity for work, but it also offers a secure backup solution in case of device failure or data loss. Choose a device with fast data transfer speeds so employees can work efficiently without delays.
If you want your remote team to be effective, you need the right level of support just as much as you need the right technology. That's where we come in. With our expertise and experience in remote work solutions, we not only provide the essential gear your team needs, but we also offer guidance and support to help your team succeed in their new work environments. Contact us today.