WebEx and iPhone

WebEx has launched an iPhone compatible version of its PCNow on demand remote access service for wireless devices and desktops.

The iPhone users can access desktop PC files, desktop search tools, Microsoft Outlook corporate mail, contacts, tasks and appointments from their handsets via the phone's Safari browser. The service also comes with SkypeOut functionality which allows users to make outbound calls even if their mobiles are not supported by the Skype mobile client.

WebEx's European vice president, Bert van der Zwan, argued that the service may encourage the adoption of the iPhone among enterprises when it reaches the UK later in the year.

"The iPhone has raised a number of security concerns with employers in relation to staff running and accessing business systems - limiting adoption by businesses. "We are introducing changes so that users can access emails as well as contacts, appointments and desktop PC files whilst on the move, via our secure MediaTone network."

Thanks,
David Chao
The Web Conferencing Expert

Mobility Issues for Remote Workers

As companies continue to hire top talent, they also realize the need to allow top talent to work from remote or home office locations. Supporting remote workers is huge challenge that IT organizations are trying to figure out. Many remote workers have individual preferences setup, are not always logged onto the corporate network, or have special security and firewall configurations which make remote support difficult.

What is an IT organization to do to effectively resolve IT issues for remote workers?

Some companies have their remote workers FedEx computers back to the home office. Not only is this expensive but it creates lost productivity hours for the remote workers and potentially missed deadlines. Other companies try to resolve issues over the phone but not all remote workers are tech saavy enough to follow technical instructions over the phone. This method is not only time consuming and inefficient but creates much frustration for both parties.

Solution...

Leverage remote support technologies that are easy to use, cost effective and firewall friendly where the requirement is simply a browser and an internet connection. No dependencies on VPN connections, on the network or not, special setups. WebEx Remote Support, Remote Access or Systems Management all are excellent solutions.

In a recent study by IDC, they forecast that the mobile worker population in the U.S. will reach 113.5 million by 2008, up from 98.5 million only three years ago. Worldwide, it's expected to be closer to 878 million mobile and remote workers by the end of the decade!

Thanks,
David Chao
The Web Conferencing Expert