As far as global events go, the Olympics are probably among some of the most anticipated, which is very much the case as London 2012 approaches. However with everyone’s eyes on the prize, some may overlook the minor to not-so-minor inconveniences that a global event of this magnitude can cause. Official estimates put the number of tourists due to arrive in London well over numbers that could severely impede your travel time. Why not skip the hassle and have your meetings remotely and from the comfort of your own home/office using Mikogo?
Over 3 million people travel on the London Underground each day. However, during the Olympic Games, the transportation system is expected to be flooded with those traveling to the games, with 5 million UK spectators and half a million international spectators. If your work requires you to travel extensively throughout the city for meetings or trainings, this increase in passengers could impede the ease, speed, and convenience with which you travel. Meetings that take place during peak commute times can instead be facilitated with Mikogo. The time you spend travelling to and from meeting places during this period could be better spent solidifying your business relationships outside of traffic and crowded tube stations.
Is London ready for this?
How many companies are not equipped with software that would allow their employees to be able to work from home? It’s hard to imagine that there are many companies that have not provided for this, considering the chaotic effect an event like the Olympics is sure to have on any infrastructure. A recent survey of companies based in London revealed that 46% of managers are worried about their level of preparedness. Working from home (or remaining in the office) and using online meeting software rather than travelling to meet with clients, is the first step to improving business relations. Allowing employees to work from home has the potential to boost productivity by giving them the opportunity for a flexible working environment. Mikogo’s easy-to-use cross-platform online meeting software enhances the home office even further by increasing the effectiveness of each interaction especially with those who prefer an easy to launch alternative.
The Mikogo Olympics Contingency Plan
While the Olympics are a reasonable occasion to make provisions in case your employees need to work from home, making sure your employees are always prepared to work remotely is essential for a flexible and dynamic workplace. Studies have shown that a work environment in which employees are periodically allowed to work from home can build up efficiency and discipline in the workplace.
Mikogo offers a variety of packages for a number of conferencing and desktop sharing needs. While you might begin to use it during the Olympics, you may realize that the remote working environment can foster important work and customer relations during and after this busy time.
Food for Thought
Are you a Londoner preparing for the morning chaotic commute? What contingency plans have you and your company put in place? Have you considered using Mikogo to meet online from home or from your own office rather than travelling across town to the offices of clients/associates?
1.http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/sport/jmagnay1/100023440/estimates-suggesting-there-will-be-11-million-visitors-to-london-2012-are-well-wide-of-the-mark/
2. http://www.cbi.org.uk/media-centre/press-releases/2012/06/most-london-firms-think-2012-games-will-boost-tourism-and-help-promote-the-capital/
3. http://www.ceridian.co.uk/hr/downloads/Home_Based_Working.pdf
