Remote workers driving use of cloud applications

Remote workers are strongly driving take up of ‘cloud’ applications that provide them with access to office tools wherever they are, according to a survey by global workplace provider Regus.

The survey of over 4,000 business people found  85% of workers have used at least one tool enabling remote working in the previous month.

Dropbox was the most commonly used online file-sharing service, used by 64%, followed by Google Drive (37%) and Microsoft Remote Desktop (25%).

Instant Messaging tools and VoIP are revolutionising the way workers communicate and helping remote employees show they are available, connected and immediately responsive. The most popular VoIP Messaging application is Skype, used by 58% of respondents in the previous month followed by Facebook Messenger (47%) and Viber (12%).

The survey also showed WhatsApp is currently by far the most popular Instant Messaging app for smartphone, used by 48% of workers once a month or more. Just 15% of those questioned said they had not used an instant messaging tool in the past month. Microsoft remote desktop was the most remote desktop globally (17%)

Richard Morris, UK CEO, Regus, said: “More and more businesses are offering staff the opportunity to work remotely at least occasionally. Online tools are helping to overcome some of the hurdles traditionally associated with working from outside of the office, such as feeling out of touch with colleagues, or being unable to access documents. Technology is bridging the gap.

“As these tools continue to develop, we expect more and more businesses to recognise the benefits of allowing employees to work flexibly. This approach has many advantages, such as cutting costs for the business and reducing lengthy commutes for employees, and consequently boosting productivity.”

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