The rise of hybrid work has fundamentally changed how we work. This shift brings new challenges, especially regarding security and compliance. This article explores the concerns and priorities of IT decision-makers in the hybrid work era. We'll also delve into why secure digital workspaces are critical and how to empower organizations to navigate this evolving landscape.
The Evolution of Hybrid Work Environments
The hybrid work environment has become pivotal in the modern workplace, reshaping how and where we work. Today, 83% of the global workforce is championing a revolutionary hybrid work model, blending remote work with in-office collaboration.
Contrary to some expectations that the work-from-home trend would eventually become a thing of the past, this change raises concerns about security and compliance, emphasizing the critical need for stringent cybersecurity measures. This post is designed to guide you through the maze of security and compliance challenges that hybrid work brings.
Inside IT Decision-Makers’ Minds: Revealed Priorities
To better understand how IT leaders are navigating this new landscape, researchers conducted a Rapid Response Market Pulse Survey. The survey collected responses from 147 senior IT decision-makers across North America within organizations with 500 or more employees. The survey provides a comprehensive snapshot of the current trends and priorities shaping IT strategies in the era of hybrid work.
Key Findings from the Survey
Priorities for End Users (including retail locations, third-party contractors, developers, etc.)
The survey results depict the top priorities for IT decision-makers when considering security solutions for various user groups:
Security and uptime (7%)
Access control (14%)
Data encryption (25%)
Device management (30%)
Collaboration tools (24%)
Top IT Initiatives Over the Next 12 Months
The survey also highlights the most critical IT initiatives for organizations over the next year:
· Security and uptime (ranked most important)
· Hybrid work capabilities (ranked 2nd most important)
· Digital transformation (ranked 3rd most important)
· Security and compliance are seen as the most important factors by IT decision-makers when evaluating technology solutions for end users.
Over the next year, security, hybrid work capabilities, and digital transformation are the key priorities for IT decision-makers.
Biggest Trends Impacting Organizations Over the Next 12 Months
Presented according to average rank (in order of importance, from highest to lowest):
· Supporting a hybrid workforce (ranked 1st)
· Accelerated digital transformation (ranked 2nd or 3rd)
· Strategic planning for the future (ranked 3rd or 4th)
· Immersive customer experience (ranked 4th or 5th)
· Increasing cybersecurity (ranked 5th)
· Inflation and supply chain (ranked 6th)
· Regulatory requirements (ranked 6th or 7th)
· Offshoring talent (ranked least important)
Several trends are set to shape the technology landscape over the next 12 months, with supporting a hybrid workforce and accelerated digital transformation at the forefront. These findings set the stage for the subsequent sections of this white paper, which delve deeper into the implications of these trends and offer actionable insights for organizations navigating the evolving technology landscape.
Why Your Hybrid Team Needs a Secure Digital Workspace
In a world where hybrid work models have become the norm, digital workspaces are the foundation that enables teams to collaborate seamlessly, regardless of physical location. These virtual environments go beyond mere convenience; they ensure that employees can securely access their work resources, applications, and data, whether they're working from the office, home, or elsewhere. But what exactly makes secure digital workspaces so crucial?
The Stakes Are High: A Glimpse into the Numbers
Recent reports highlight the increasingly critical role secure digital workspaces play in safeguarding businesses. According to the IBM Data Breach Report 2023, the average cost of a data breach has reached an all-time high of USD 4.45 million. This financial wake-up call amplifies the need for robust security measures, especially in a hybrid landscape where endpoints multiply.
The Global Average Cost of a Data Breach in 2023 Was USD 4.45 Million, a 15% Increase Over 3 Years
Beyond the Cost: The Ripple Effects of Breaches
Data breaches and non-compliance issues have consequences that go beyond financial losses. They can harm a company's reputation, erode customer trust, and result in legal troubles that can be very damaging. For example, failing to comply with industry-specific regulations like HIPAA and PCI can lead to hefty fines and legal consequences.
The hybrid work model is here to stay, and with it comes the necessity for robust security measures. By prioritizing a secure digital workspace and leveraging the right solutions, organizations can empower their hybrid teams and navigate the future of work with confidence.