As 2020 started, the way of working has changed significantly. Due to lockdowns, we have seen a rapid change in the work environment. Most companies were forced to introduce remote working. The problem here is the equipment of companies. Now not only more hardware is needed for employees at home but also different types of it. This need caused many issues. Typical corporations often had stationary PCs and very few laptops. Whatsmore those laptops often differed in computing power from the traditional PC. This was a huge disadvantage for employees. Some of them were not eligible to receive devices from companies they worked for, so they had to use their personal hardware. The other received devices but those were often not customized for computing large amounts of data.
According to this trend, Microsoft created a survey which presents that: 51% of employees feel that „ devices are provided based on job role alone” not taking into consideration their personal needs. Results also show that for 25% of the responders processing power of the hardware is the main frustration factor. 35% responded that their productivity increased after being given new hardware.
Concluding responses we may notice that an important factor for keeping employees motivated is the power and personalization of hardware.
Microsoft for some time has been working on its Surface range of devices. The current situation may be crucial for them to take a big share of this hardware change.
Whatsmore, Microsoft recently launched Windows 11. The operating system will be more dedicated to remote working.
Summing up, the current situation enforces a new way of working. The previous state of being was not exactly adapted to that. As many employees have to work remotely, at least part-time, it requires new devices to make the work available. It has also shown that new kinds of devices are needed, ones that have high power performance. This scenario creates huge opportunities for both hardware and software producers. We yet do not know which company will end up being successful in this situation, but a more important question is, will the new devices meet the needs of employees?
Sources: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2021/11/21/microsoft-windows-11-surface-pro-wfh-device-decisions/?sh=2700a396afaf&fbclid=IwAR0n2s5048lRcczHluOpxGbnymxo4eBJ4JQQZAvUm-MK5Ni1nf1qhOEZu3M
Its quite fascinating to think that just 2 years ago, the way most people worked was a lot different than compared to now. Majority of the biggest companies in the world have switched to long-term remote working. And this sudden change in the mode of work is bound to create a higher demand in technological devices. Its definitely intriguing to think about what the future holds with the new technologies that are bound to be produced as an adaptation to this situation. I feel the opportunities are endless. Great article!