The challenge of managing deskless workers is making sure they've got access to all the same information that an employee with a desk would have. Office workers with full desktop computers are wired in and have the corporate network available but mobile workers have to make do with wifi and get work done on whatever network they can connect to. How to get your mobile workforce all the information and training they need while staying in touch with the home office? Here are four ways to make sure they’ve got what they need.
Mobile Access
Everyone in your organization needs access to the information that will let them do their job well. Deskless employees have an added challenge of trying to keep up-to-date while on the go. First, they need the latest in mobile technologies – smartphones and tablets that have WiFi and cell access. Next, make sure that your learning and document sharing platforms have mobile-friendly apps or access. Deskless employees shouldn't have second-class access to the content they need. In fact, deskless workers often need the information where they are working - whether that's on a sales floor, client office, or kitchen line. The ability to access the documents they need wherever they are and at the moment when they need them is key to deskless success.
Automatic Syncing
Keeping employees up-to-date with the latest documents and information is difficult enough when they’re in the office, so it’s important to make it as easy as possible for your deskless workers to reference the most up-to-date information. This will save the people in the field from guessing if they have the right version, and eliminates needing to send separate messages letting them know to log on and download a new file. If your looking to modernize your processes, look for learning management and document sharing systems that have automatic synchronization functionality.
Messaging
Have your messaging services integrated with your content management system to keep employees focused. Distractions arise when people need to leave one app to access another. An all-inclusive system that allows communication without having to exit keeps employees on-task and in the flow. In-app messaging also keeps costs down by not having to purchase or license another piece of software, which also lightens the load on your IT department. (They will appreciate that, trust me!)
Micro Learning
Traditional training sessions are necessary for deep dives, but not every topic needs to be studied in-depth. Deskless employees more than anyone need the kind of performance support at the time and place of need that micro-learning provides. Micro-learning delivers short bits of content that don’t take long to read or view, but fortifies their knowledge quickly and lets them get back to the task at hand. Micro-learning also helps reinforce habits that are beneficial to the organization.
Every work situation is different, but providing your deskless workers with these basics can help increase productivity and give them what they need to do their jobs. High levels of engagement at work are correlated with job satisfaction, so these tools can also reduce employee turnover by keeping them happy. Read more about how to support your deskless workforce in our latest eBook: Power Your Employee Productivity With Performance Support.
