Resourcefulness While Working Remote

On 27 March 2020 South Africans entered the unknown prospect of a nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19. More than 3 weeks later its effect on the daily lives of ordinary citizens and businesses has become apparent. We here at Azapi have had to implement drastic measures and innovate wherever possible. Luckily we found there are numerous tools available to make this journey a little less daunting. 

G-Suite

We had already been using G-suite and all its valuable features pre-lockdown, however only now have we experienced its true potential. Fact is, G-Suite makes working together (especially when team members are working remotely from their homes) a whole lot easier. 

Here’s how Azapi benefited from the wide range of features:

Connect

One of the applications that stand out is Gmail, not only are you getting secure, private, ad-free email for your business, but team members are able to effectively communicate with each other via Hangouts. This edition of G-Suite allows for setting-up your own personalised business email. This is made easy through the Chat feature, joining a Hangouts Meet video call or sharing your screen for a presentation. 

Another great application of G-suite is the integrated online calendars designed for teams. The calendar makes it easy to share information. But it is its ability to schedule events quickly by checking coworkers’ availability or layering their calendars in a single view that really elevates it. 

Access

Not working together in an office can be a daunting task, especially once you start thinking about the sharing of files or information, the best practices thereof and the worst-case scenario of losing sensitive data. Luckily G-Suite provides solutions to these challenges. Using Google Drive, we were able to store, share and easily access uploaded files from a secure cloud storage resource, even from our home office. 

Create & Collaborate

Once all the admin had been taken care of, it was time to create some great work. G-Suite provides us with everything needed to bring our projects to life with real-time co-editing on Google Docs. Advanced and fast online spreadsheets on Sheets and by creating engaging presentations together on Slides. 

Looking Forward

Using these tools and many other valuable resources available online, Azapi’s staff were able to continue working as ‘normal’ from different locations with zero downtime. Proving that through technology challenges can be overcome. The lockdown has shown that empowering your staff with the right tools for the job is essential. Communication is key to achieving success when working remotely, and we will always find a way no matter the circumstances.