How to choose the right operating system software for your remote team

Remote work has evolved from a niche arrangement to a mainstream necessity. For many organizations, working with a distributed team spread across various locations is now the norm rather than the exception. 

This shift brings exciting opportunities for talent acquisition and flexibility but also introduces a unique set of challenges. 

From navigating different time zones to maintaining clear communication and ensuring productivity, managing a remote team requires thoughtful strategies and robust systems. 

However, the right operating system software can effectively address these challenges. 

In the 505th episode of the Outsource Accelerator Podcast, Andy Schachtel, President and CEO of Sourcefit, discussed how their operating system can help geographically dispersed teams overcome obstacles and thrive in a cohesive environment.

What is an operating system software?

An operating system software for remote teams is a specialized type of software designed to facilitate and enhance the management and coordination of team activities across various locations. 

Unlike traditional operating systems that focus on individual computer management, this software integrates tools and features tailored for remote collaboration. 

It often includes functionalities such as:

• Secure communication channels
• File sharing
• Project management
• Real-time collaboration features

Remote teams are able to work together efficiently despite physical distances. 

Top outsourcing firm Sourcefit, for instance, has developed an advanced operating system that goes beyond the usual management functions of collaborating with remote teams. 

As Andy explained, “Instead [of] using five different kinds of systems, now everything is in every process, and every aspect of our company can be in one system.”

3 Main benefits of using the right operating system 

Choosing the right operating system software for remote teams can help overcome common challenges associated with location and time zones. 

Here are three key benefits of investing in an appropriate operating system for your distributed teams:

Enhanced communication

The right OS software facilitates seamless communication by integrating chat, video conferencing, and messaging tools into a unified platform. 

Team members can easily connect, share updates, and collaborate in real time, regardless of their physical location, leading to more effective and timely exchanges.

Sourcefit’s operating system is used by both the organization and its clients. This management tool helps both parties to avoid missed communication.

“[If] we miss an email or our account management team doesn’t know what our HR team said to a particular client… everything is there in one platform for everyone to see then those kinds of communication misses can be at least reduced,” the CEO detailed.

Streamlined workflow and project management

A robust operating system offers advanced project management features that help teams track progress, assign tasks, and set deadlines. 

This centralizes all project-related information and ensures that everyone stays on the same page. In turn, it improves efficiency and accountability.

Modern innovations have allowed Sourcefit’s team to optimize its operating system further using artificial intelligence (AI). 

According to Andy, “What people do in one digital space allows us to utilize generative AI to assist them and to give them insights into what they’re doing and give [the] management more insight into what’s happening.”

Increased security and data protection

Specialized OS software often includes enhanced security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular updates. 

These features help safeguard sensitive information and protect against cyber threats. Team members can work confidently and securely from various locations.

Selecting the right operating system for your remote team

While each remote team will have different sets of needs to be incorporated into an operating system, for Andy and his team at Sourcefit, “We hope that it can be useful to other companies besides ourselves.”

Choosing the right operating system software for remote teams is important for optimizing collaboration, productivity, and security. 

With a plethora of options available, businesses need to evaluate their specific needs and consider various factors to make an informed decision. 

Below are three considerations to guide organizations in choosing the ideal operating system software for their remote teams:

1. Assess collaboration features

Evaluate the software’s ability to facilitate effective communication and collaboration. Look for integrated tools such as messaging platforms, video conferencing, and shared document editing. 

One of the good things about Sourcefit’s operation system is that “Every process is transparent and is immediately accessible to the client,” the CEO shares.

Note that a system that supports real-time interaction and seamless file sharing can enhance teamwork and streamline project workflows.

2. Evaluate integration capabilities

Ensure that the operating system can integrate smoothly with other tools and software already in use, such as CRM systems, productivity apps, and cloud storage services. 

Reliable integration capabilities help maintain a cohesive work environment and reduce the need for manual data transfers or redundant processes.

3. Consider security and compliance

Choose software that offers robust security features such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular updates. 

Additionally, it ensures that it meets industry-specific compliance standards and data protection regulations. Strong security measures are essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining trust.

In terms of Sourcefit’s operating system, Andy explains, “We made a concerted effort [this time] to build it in such a way that it’s malleable with modules that work well together so it can be easily customized for different types of businesses.

But especially, it’s geared to businesses like ours, where you have lots of people doing lots of different things and lots of clients who need access to individual teams within the system.”

Sourcefit’s platform allows distributed teams to work together effectively and securely, regardless of their global locations.