Working in an open-air office – things you need to know
Working outside, although it sounds easy, still requires you to bear a few things in mind:
- Electricity supply
- Internet connection
- Wind & weather
- Stipulations from your employer
A power supply can soon become an issue as laptops and tablets don’t usually last the whole working day, which is why you have to switch your workspace every few hours or invest in a power bank.
If you rely on good internet signal, you are better off using dongles or looking for cafés and restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi. It is a good idea to ask your employer in advance whether you are permitted to work outside and what you need to be aware of. Data protection is a high priority. A secure connection with VPN (Virtual Private Networks) allows you to work with open Wi-Fi in hotels or cafés to securely access data from the company network. In addition, you can send emails using a secure SSL encryption. Larger companies usually have an IT department and, since GDPR came into force, a data protection officer who deals with any questions you may have about the regulations.
Gusts of wind can also quickly ruin your work if you are dealing with loose sheets of paper. And if you happen to be working next to a pond then your work will almost definitely get wet. This is why you should always secure your documents and not leave them lying around. If you plan to move your workstation outside, it is best to check the weather in advance to avoid being surprised by sudden showers.