Do not rely on virtual offices, association warns
Aug 14 2008
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Although virtual offices can be useful for keeping a business going after a disaster, it can be difficult to rely on them for the long term, an industry expert warns.
Frances Coulson, a spokesperson for the Association of Business Recovery Professionals, comments that virtual offices can be useful in spreading risk but businesses should try and get back into their premises as soon as problems are resolved.
The reduction in costs made as a result of virtual networks may not counterbalance workers' isolation and the absence of team spirit, she remarks.
For example, security surrounding a virtual office has to be tight and an absence of a physical building can also lessen the profile of a firm, she says.
According to serviced premises provider Choregus, of all businesses using virtual office services, 40 per cent are in the banking and finance industries, 16 per cent offer business services and 14 per cent are consultants.
Business advisory service Business Link comments virtual offices are most appropriate for those operating alone from their own homes.
Comment by Peter Radcliffe
Tuesday 29th September 2009I dont agree with Frances Coulson, it is not at all necesary to have an office unless the business is office based where teams have to work together and or need to produce a product. Most businesses will thrive by the staff being able to go out and visit their clients and suppliers, small or big. A good Virtual Office provider can offer meeting facilities where the staff can meet for a short time to discuss face to face. This is all without the cost and management time that a physical office requires,even in a serviced office centre. Also the psychological element of "well, I have an office, therefore I must sit in it" is removed. The Virtual Office and the Virtual Switchboard service are the future. Good ones are economical, efficient and give their client a corporate look from day 1. We all know that looks matter. Kind Regards Peter Radcliffe officeFRONT Ltd www.officefront.co.uk peter@officefront.co.uk
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