A New Day at the Office
The traditional “day at the office” has likely gone forever. As parts of the world gradually reopen after restrictions, increasing amounts of workers – and their employers – have found themselves to be greatly benefitting from the flexibility to work from anywhere. Workforces are already transitioning to the next normal while simultaneously charting new paths and re-evaluating what the future work model actually looks like. What we do know is that intelligent, optimized workflows and boosted core efficiencies are on everyone's minds right now. But how will they be implemented?
What Does the New Hybrid Normal look like?
Workplace evolution has been relatively constant, but the COVID-19 crisis increased the pace of change exponentially, with some observers suggesting that the corporate space would soon be unrecognizable. But as people begin to return to work, it’s not so much that the office has changed, but that the way we utilize it is shifting. With a trend towards all-inclusive collaborative team activity rather than individual desk-based working, even if office real estate is scaled back, collaborative multifunction meetings spaces are likely to gain importance. And this has enormous implications for IT and networking systems integrators as well as vendors of collaborative workplace solutions.
Challenges
As organizations look forward and decide on their working culture, it is unlikely to be a clear binary choice, but rather something more flexible: A hybrid workplace for an adaptive workforce that is able to work from anywhere but is empowered to work from where they’re most productive 1. So for suppliers of workplace solutions, here are some of the key challenges:
- Meeting spaces must be highly compatible and remote participants should be accommodated
- Remote workers must feel as engaged and empowered as those in the office
- Remote workers must be able to access tools with as consistent an experience as when in the office
- Desktop workstations must provide agility and ergonomics for full-time staff and hotdeskers
- Flex workers must have the connectivity and access in order to stay productive while mobile
With these types of fluid solutions in place, organizations and workers will be able to bridge the gap between variable working arrangements and make sure that productive hybrid work is here to stay.
Trends
Success Depends on Embracing Challenges of Data and Analytics
The key to managing new hybrid workplace dynamics is via the transparent use of data and analytics. According to Forbes 1, the data proves that hybrid models work well, and hybridity will be a major productivity strategy for the future. However, there are a multitude of hybrid working variations. Understanding employees’ new habits and workflows while maintaining acceptable productivity levels necessitates the constant re-assessment of performance metrics. To get the whole story, organizations should be making informed data-driven decisions about their own hybrid models, particularly in terms of motivation, engagement, and ROI, so implementations can be adjusted with a fluidity that ensures the most seamless operations.2
Flex Worker Expectations are Evolving New Approaches to Productivity
Almost three-quarters of employees want flexible remote work options to remain in place, even after the pandemic has ended, according to Statista 1. The worldwide shift to adaptive and home working has empowered a new kind of laptop-enabled flex worker who only requires high-speed Wi-Fi, USB video capture, a dock, and a decent workspace located anywhere to perform their job effectively. As the boundaries between travel, life, and work are blurring, productivity is actually improving, so much so that industry leaders are realizing that productivity needs to be redefined to support the needs of a dispersed workforce by incorporating aspects such as collaboration, learning, and wellbeing 2.
Collaboration Tools to become Backbone as AI Augmentation Looms
It remains difficult to replicate the advantages of in-person interaction, particularly for brainstorming, ideation, and mentorship, in a virtual meeting environment 1. So striking the right balance means changing the way that meeting space technologies are used. Tools that support meaningful interaction between on-site and remote/flex participants are now simply a baseline requirement. Looking further, in addition to ensuring inclusion, collaboration platforms are soon likely to incorporate AI components, such as wearable tech and intelligent screens, to also ensure wellness 2. It is clear that collaborative technologies are no longer just tools; they are becoming the infrastructure backbone for the connections and culture of the smart hybrid workplace.
Key Tech Adoption is Being Accelerated but Also Re-Imagined
Three-quarters of US companies intend to speed up their technology transfer in 2021, while 87% of UK employers have also accelerated their digital transformation projects 1, but these are adoptions that were already in place. For example, video content creation and viewership was already on the rise before 2020, and now livestreaming content has become an indispensible tool for many organizations. 4K KVM switch solutions are already providing flexibility and power for desktop warriors, while portable USB-C docking stations are expanding device functionality for mobile workers. It’s mostly a matter of re-imagining some key core technologies that are useful for the hybrid workplace – and they are mostly already available 2.
ATEN Solutions
ATEN specializes in flexible, easily deployed solutions for flex and remote work to future-proof organizational productivity and meet the evolving needs of both employers and employees. These include:
- Collaborative Meeting Space Solutions tailored for remote participants and smooth BYOD-enabled communication in conference rooms and huddle spaces
- Innovative Content Creation Solutions for engaging pro-level content that’s easy to produce and livestream for the increasingly video-heavy new normal
- Agile Desktop KVM Solutions for greater productivity, ergonomics, and adaptivity to work smarter in an evolving hybrid work landscape
- Portable Connectivity Solutions to expand device functionality and empower mobile workers with the greatest flexibility to work wherever they are located
- Secure Remote Access Solutions for remote IT infrastructure management and effective remote working with full access to workplace resources
ATEN Advantages
ATEN Hybrid Workplace solutions have the following advantages:
Enhanced Collaboration for Remote Meeting Participants
As companies look to reboot the digital workplace for the new normal, the implementation of thriving meeting spaces for team interactions is the key to productivity and results. ATEN solutions provide collaborative functions to maximize engagement, such as BYOD and interactive whiteboards, for remote participant-enabled meetings in all kinds of hybrid work models.
Pro-level Content Creation and Livestreaming for Business
Expanding the reach of business operations with pro-level video content that can be shared with strategic partners and customers around the globe has become paramount. ATEN solutions allow businesses to transition tradeshows, conferences, and even corporate training, to a virtual format with dynamic effects and two-camera switching to be livestreamed to any streaming platform.
Direct Hack-proof Connections for Efficient Remote Working
To avoid the cybersecurity perils of software solutions, ATEN single port KVM over IP switches provide remote workers with a secure, hardware-based solution to connect remotely to corporate systems for synchronous working in real time, with secured remote access to digital video, audio, and virtual media via remote BIOS-level control of office-based PCs and workstations.
Secure Access for Remote IT Infrastructure Management
For any workplace setup, ATEN over IP solutions offer smooth, secure remote access to all devices in corporate server rooms. The complete infrastructure is accessible from anywhere via a single portal, ensuring that critical systems can be managed remotely and in real time to maintain the seamless provision of IT services required to keep businesses moving.
Commitment to Providing Flexible Workplace Solutions
As a leading integrated AV/IT solutions provider, ATEN understands that the evolution of the workplace brings new challenges for connectivity, so our remote work and hybrid solutions are flexible enough to fit a wide range of applications, both in and out of the workplace, allowing flex employees to remain engaged in productivity wherever they are located.
Video up to True 4K for Immersive Visual Excellence
To meet the needs for smooth operations, seamless high-performance video is of prime importance to ensure that in-office employees, remote staff, and flex workers are getting the best visual experience possible. ATEN desktop, content creation, docking, and remote access solutions support the highest resolutions and quality for applications at all locations in any hybrid workplace model.
ATEN Solutions in Action
Remote Participant-inclusive Conference Room with Advanced Moderator Functions
As part of its transition to a hybrid work model, a company decided to revamp its conference room equipment so that remote participants could be fully accommodated with a level of inclusivity that ensured their well-being and continued productivity. In order to do so, the company required a moderator-enabled AV distribution and conferencing solution that streamlined accessibility, featured advanced audio functions, and facilitated local and remote collaboration and content sharing in such a way that its remote workers felt as engaged and empowered as those in the room.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Centered on a highly compatible yet compact device that consolidates multiple source formats, the ATEN solution offers bi-directional multistreaming that enables content to be shared to and from participants remotely, while the moderator is able to discretely access any output display to switch content or change settings. The solution supports audio embedding/de-embedding in addition to mixing microphone input with an external analog or digital audio source for seamless interactions between all participants wherever they are located. |
Streamlined Communications for Impromptu Meetings in Multifunction Space
In order to optimize productivity and communication by more effectively managing employee interactions in the new hybrid work environment, a corporation was looking for a presentation solution for its multifunction huddle space. The corporation wanted a solution that enables quick meetings to be launched at any time while still providing an advanced level of collaboration among team members. Multiple participants need to display content at the same time and share material instantly, while also taking notes and making annotations on shared files for efficient project management. Support for both Apple and Android-based devices was required.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Creates a streamlined, collaborative environment with reliable connections for shared presentations at up to 4K HDR. With efficient BYOD meetings on demand and simultaneous bi-directional multistreaming that allows remote colleagues to stream-in content from their own laptop or mobile device over a secure connection on the same LAN, the ATEN solution leverages digital whiteboard, chat room, and file sharing functionality in order to reboot the hybrid workplace for improved productivity at both the individual and team levels. |
Streamlined Multi-view Agility at the Desktop with USB-C Connectivity
In order to create a smarter and more ergonomic environment for its increasingly adaptive workforce, a design company wanted to future-proof its workstations with high-performance desktop solutions optimized for productive multitasking. The solution needed to provide USB-C connectivity and fast multi-computer switching at resolutions up to 4K. The company also wanted the flexibility to implement dual-display 4K workstations with the option to daisy-chain extra monitors in an extended desktop, while providing easy connectivity for mobile devices and peripherals for the optimum in agility for both its in-house team and flexible hotdeskers.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Allows workers to effortlessly switch among multiple content sources and comfortably multitask at their desktop consoles while maximizing creativity. Installing two different KVMP switch models allows for varied display setups across the workstations and for the easy connection of laptops to gain full access to system resources, providing flexibility and power for in-house and flex workers. ATEN Boundless Switching allows users to simply move the mouse cursor across the display borders to switch display sources and control. |
Work-from-Anywhere USB-C Connectivity with Powerful Desktop Capabilities
Due to shifting working patterns at his investment firm, a financial analyst was looking to build up his home workstation and work-from-anywhere capabilities for an easier transition into the new normal. He needed a USB-C docking station that was portable and ergonomic but with powerful desktop capabilities to support extending his laptop to an external 4K display for better information visualization to more effectively evaluate data. He also required a hardwired connection to the Internet, and to charge his other devices. In addition, the dock needed to be equipped with card readers and to support a headset.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The ATEN solution allows the analyst to use a single USB-C cable to charge, transfer data and expand his workstation with an extra 10 ports. The docking station’s aluminum enclosure makes it lightweight yet rugged, so placing the laptop directly on top of the station saves space, allows for comfortable typing and keeps the laptop cool. A headset/microphone or USB Type-A peripherals, such as external hard drives, or even full-sized keyboard and mouse, can be connected to further expand the workstation with ease. |
Professional One-person Production Studio for Working-from-Anywhere
The sales department of a small tech company was transitioning its workforce to an adaptive model, and needed a quick and easy distance-working solution that allowed them to convert any camera into a high-quality webcam to livestream business presentations and sales meetings on a variety of CDN and OBS platforms. Due to the number of sales staff, it needed to be cost-effective and support the widest variety of platforms, while packing in enough features to create the kind of innovative sales presentations they required to help make great deals and elevate their brand image.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The ATEN CAMLIVETM PRO captures unencrypted HDMI video signals from camcorders, DSLRs, and action cams up to 1080P@60Hz. With support for two cameras, on-the-go sales workers can make use of PiP to clearly demo products or highlight presentation content. A mic can be connected for pro-level sound while control is achieved by connecting to their Android / iOS phone with Bluetooth. The CAMLIVE™ PRO supports Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), Xsplit, Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and Skype for high versatility. |
Streaming Solutions for Convenient Pro-level Video Production
With the ever-increasing importance of dynamic video content to engage viewers in all aspects of the hybrid landscape, a media start-up was looking for a convenient tool for their in-house studio that had livestreaming functionalities so they could create engaging promotional content for their various channels and to increase their social media presence across all platforms. A large part of their proposed content was the production of live interviews with industry leaders as guests, so the solution needed to be portable, as well as create tutorials, promotional showcases, and online training materials for a wide range of topics in FHD.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| StreamLIVE™ PRO livestreams to two platforms at the same time virtually anywhere via an Ethernet connection so the start-up can reach a wider audience. The OnAir™ Pro app includes powerful features so they can use different custom layouts and create title overlays with professional-looking effects on the fly. StreamLIVE™ PRO is also a portable video production system that can be taken to any location, so the start-up can visit interviewees at their convenience. |
Full Unrestricted Access over IP to HQ Resources for Remote Workers
With half of its workforce working from home, a company was looking for a solution that provided these remote workers with a direct hack-proof connection to access company resources with as little disruption to their working experience as possible. With a need for remote workers to access proprietary information, a software solution was out of the question due to security concerns. They required a hardware-based solution with all remote connections to be protected with encryption so that data and workflow remained secure from end to end while still enabling synchronous working in real time to maintain productivity.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The CN9950 units allowed remote workers to access workstations and equipment on the office network from any remote location. An authorized virtual media function supports file applications and software installation, while the integration of session monitoring software allows for HQ administrators to track unauthorized use or other incidents. The hardware’s remote access path is separated from the operation network, so there is no data leakage concern, no backdoor, and thus no way for would-be hackers to break in. |
IT Infrastructure Management for Seamless New Normal Service Delivery
As work practices continue to transition to new models, a government department was tasked with implementing new delivery methods to improve unified information services for citizens. They needed to first set up centralized access to critical systems with real-time remote management of all relevant data centers involved in digital service provision. They were looking for a remote management solution that that would not only operate effectively with their current infrastructure but also included intelligent power management and protection to ensure 24-7 operation and the seamless provision of services that was integrated across channels.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Consolidates management of complex IT environments across the various public service departments with a high degree of platform and device integration. Centralized access to critical systems and real-time remote management, including BIOS-level access and control of any server to enable a faster response to emergencies, ensures the seamless provision of government services. The proprietary ATEN operating system offered by Console Stations in tandem with KVM over IP Switches provides the required level of remote-access security. |
ATEN Solutions in Action
Remote Participant-inclusive Conference Room with Advanced Moderator Functions
As part of its transition to a hybrid work model, a company decided to revamp its conference room equipment so that remote participants could be fully accommodated with a level of inclusivity that ensured their well-being and continued productivity. In order to do so, the company required a moderator-enabled AV distribution and conferencing solution that streamlined accessibility, featured advanced audio functions, and facilitated local and remote collaboration and content sharing in such a way that its remote workers felt as engaged and empowered as those in the room.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Centered on a highly compatible yet compact device that consolidates multiple source formats, the ATEN solution offers bi-directional multistreaming that enables content to be shared to and from participants remotely, while the moderator is able to discretely access any output display to switch content or change settings. The solution supports audio embedding/de-embedding in addition to mixing microphone input with an external analog or digital audio source for seamless interactions between all participants wherever they are located. |
Streamlined Communications for Impromptu Meetings in Multifunction Space
In order to optimize productivity and communication by more effectively managing employee interactions in the new hybrid work environment, a corporation was looking for a presentation solution for its multifunction huddle space. The corporation wanted a solution that enables quick meetings to be launched at any time while still providing an advanced level of collaboration among team members. Multiple participants need to display content at the same time and share material instantly, while also taking notes and making annotations on shared files for efficient project management. Support for both Apple and Android-based devices was required.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Creates a streamlined, collaborative environment with reliable connections for shared presentations at up to 4K HDR. With efficient BYOD meetings on demand and simultaneous bi-directional multistreaming that allows remote colleagues to stream-in content from their own laptop or mobile device over a secure connection on the same LAN, the ATEN solution leverages digital whiteboard, chat room, and file sharing functionality in order to reboot the hybrid workplace for improved productivity at both the individual and team levels. |
Streamlined Multi-view Agility at the Desktop with USB-C Connectivity
In order to create a smarter and more ergonomic environment for its increasingly adaptive workforce, a design company wanted to future-proof its workstations with high-performance desktop solutions optimized for productive multitasking. The solution needed to provide USB-C connectivity and fast multi-computer switching at resolutions up to 4K. The company also wanted the flexibility to implement dual-display 4K workstations with the option to daisy-chain extra monitors in an extended desktop, while providing easy connectivity for mobile devices and peripherals for the optimum in agility for both its in-house team and flexible hotdeskers.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Allows workers to effortlessly switch among multiple content sources and comfortably multitask at their desktop consoles while maximizing creativity. Installing two different KVMP switch models allows for varied display setups across the workstations and for the easy connection of laptops to gain full access to system resources, providing flexibility and power for in-house and flex workers. ATEN Boundless Switching allows users to simply move the mouse cursor across the display borders to switch display sources and control. |
Work-from-Anywhere USB-C Connectivity with Powerful Desktop Capabilities
Due to shifting working patterns at his investment firm, a financial analyst was looking to build up his home workstation and work-from-anywhere capabilities for an easier transition into the new normal. He needed a USB-C docking station that was portable and ergonomic but with powerful desktop capabilities to support extending his laptop to an external 4K display for better information visualization to more effectively evaluate data. He also required a hardwired connection to the Internet, and to charge his other devices. In addition, the dock needed to be equipped with card readers and to support a headset.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The ATEN solution allows the analyst to use a single USB-C cable to charge, transfer data and expand his workstation with an extra 10 ports. The docking station’s aluminum enclosure makes it lightweight yet rugged, so placing the laptop directly on top of the station saves space, allows for comfortable typing and keeps the laptop cool. A headset/microphone or USB Type-A peripherals, such as external hard drives, or even full-sized keyboard and mouse, can be connected to further expand the workstation with ease. |
Professional One-person Production Studio for Working-from-Anywhere
The sales department of a small tech company was transitioning its workforce to an adaptive model, and needed a quick and easy distance-working solution that allowed them to convert any camera into a high-quality webcam to livestream business presentations and sales meetings on a variety of CDN and OBS platforms. Due to the number of sales staff, it needed to be cost-effective and support the widest variety of platforms, while packing in enough features to create the kind of innovative sales presentations they required to help make great deals and elevate their brand image.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The ATEN CAMLIVETM PRO captures unencrypted HDMI video signals from camcorders, DSLRs, and action cams up to 1080P@60Hz. With support for two cameras, on-the-go sales workers can make use of PiP to clearly demo products or highlight presentation content. A mic can be connected for pro-level sound while control is achieved by connecting to their Android / iOS phone with Bluetooth. The CAMLIVE™ PRO supports Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), Xsplit, Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and Skype for high versatility. |
Streaming Solutions for Convenient Pro-level Video Production
With the ever-increasing importance of dynamic video content to engage viewers in all aspects of the hybrid landscape, a media start-up was looking for a convenient tool for their in-house studio that had livestreaming functionalities so they could create engaging promotional content for their various channels and to increase their social media presence across all platforms. A large part of their proposed content was the production of live interviews with industry leaders as guests, so the solution needed to be portable, as well as create tutorials, promotional showcases, and online training materials for a wide range of topics in FHD.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| StreamLIVE™ PRO livestreams to two platforms at the same time virtually anywhere via an Ethernet connection so the start-up can reach a wider audience. The OnAir™ Pro app includes powerful features so they can use different custom layouts and create title overlays with professional-looking effects on the fly. StreamLIVE™ PRO is also a portable video production system that can be taken to any location, so the start-up can visit interviewees at their convenience. |
Full Unrestricted Access over IP to HQ Resources for Remote Workers
With half of its workforce working from home, a company was looking for a solution that provided these remote workers with a direct hack-proof connection to access company resources with as little disruption to their working experience as possible. With a need for remote workers to access proprietary information, a software solution was out of the question due to security concerns. They required a hardware-based solution with all remote connections to be protected with encryption so that data and workflow remained secure from end to end while still enabling synchronous working in real time to maintain productivity.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| The CN9950 units allowed remote workers to access workstations and equipment on the office network from any remote location. An authorized virtual media function supports file applications and software installation, while the integration of session monitoring software allows for HQ administrators to track unauthorized use or other incidents. The hardware’s remote access path is separated from the operation network, so there is no data leakage concern, no backdoor, and thus no way for would-be hackers to break in. |
IT Infrastructure Management for Seamless New Normal Service Delivery
As work practices continue to transition to new models, a government department was tasked with implementing new delivery methods to improve unified information services for citizens. They needed to first set up centralized access to critical systems with real-time remote management of all relevant data centers involved in digital service provision. They were looking for a remote management solution that that would not only operate effectively with their current infrastructure but also included intelligent power management and protection to ensure 24-7 operation and the seamless provision of services that was integrated across channels.
| Challenges | The ATEN Solution |
|---|---|
| Consolidates management of complex IT environments across the various public service departments with a high degree of platform and device integration. Centralized access to critical systems and real-time remote management, including BIOS-level access and control of any server to enable a faster response to emergencies, ensures the seamless provision of government services. The proprietary ATEN operating system offered by Console Stations in tandem with KVM over IP Switches provides the required level of remote-access security. |
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