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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business

Office of the future: cloud computing and flexible working

Flexible working
Flexible working: coming soon to an office near you. Photograph: Gabriel Blaj / Alamy

What will your office look like in 10 years’ time? Will it be much the same or largely empty, with a flexible workforce based wherever is most convenient?

Whatever it looks like, one thing’s for sure – flexible working is on its way, and small businesses need to prepare now so they are not caught unawares. Understanding how to use technology and the cloud to effectively manage remote staff could be essential if SMEs are to make the most of this new way of working.

Whether it’s bookkeeping, data storage or altering employee schedules, our readers had plenty of examples of how to use the cloud. You shared your #worksmarter tips with us:

Bookkeeping software proved to be a popular cloud-based tool

Whereas for some businesses, the focus was on smarter working within the team

Many readers are embracing the cloud in their business model...

...with remote workforces able to stay up to date from any location

Working on the go seems indispensable to many business owners, and online storage essential for piece of mind

Content on this page is paid for and produced to a brief agreed with O2 Business, sponsor of the supporting business growth hub

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