JEDDAH – Some 65 percent of respondents in a survey in the Kingdom said that they prefer Wi-Fi over other connections (4G, 3G or wired). The survey was conducted by Aruba Networks in Saudi Arabia, as part of a larger global survey of 5,000+ respondents, on the enterprise mobility trend. While remote working is certainly in demand in Saudi Arabia, the concept of traditional offices and working hours will still exist, said Ammar Enaya, Regional Director at Aruba Networks, Middle East & Turkey, said The focus on a more flexible work environment is mainly driven by knowledge workers – industries such as the financial and professional services are leading the way in this transition. But the likes of healthcare and retail will continue to require more traditional workplaces, for obvious reasons. So what does this suggest about the workplace of the future? It indicates it will be one in which employees have complete flexibility to access information and collaborate, and where business processes become increasingly automated. This means employers in Saudi will need to shift their thinking on the concept of the workplace to one that meets the needs of the mobile workforce. Those who offer the conditions sought after by this segment (dubbed #GenMobile by Aruba Networks), are more likely to attract and retain the best talent. Organizations that already have 802.11n Wi-Fi, should consider deploying 802.11ac first in areas that serve lots of users. Then, over time, migrate fully to 802.11ac Wi-Fi. Outdoor 802.11ac APs can even extend Wi-Fi to parking lots, courtyards and sidewalks. In short, employers in Saudi need to put ample mobile measures in place for #GenMobile, and soon – or risk scaring away future talent. With flexible and remote working such a top priority, and the traditional ‘productive' working hours slipping away, organizations need to improve their mobile credentials, and close the #GenMobile gap, the survey findings recommended. – SG
