Tapping the cloud to maximise efficiency

CIARA O’BRIEN

In a few years’ time, we could be working in the next-generation workspace, where people use their own devices to work both in the office and from home, and many companies will be restructuring their technology to reach where their employees are.

That is the trend Cisco is expecting, according to its latest TechWatch report. It found that 76 per cent of companies plan to structure their operations based on the most efficient use of skills and resources within three years, with 15 per cent claiming this is already taking place.

The report found that smaller companies are starting to prioritise remote access as they look for new ways to stimulate productivity and allow employees to access more flexible working arrangements.

Cisco UK and Ireland chief technology officer Ian Foddering said the key themes from the survey were: simplicity and removing unnecessary complexity associated with IT; protection around securing the network and company assets; and the ability to change and grow.

About 48 per cent of companies that took part in the survey said increased security threats were among the most significant challenges facing their business in the next 12 months, with 51 per cent citing performance as a concern as pressure on existing networks grow.

More than 500 organisations in Britain and Ireland took part in the survey, which covered small, medium and large enterprises.