Remote and Hybrid Work Mandatory Training

Telecommuting Employee Training

Remote Work Best Practices

Device Recommendations

• It is best practice for all employees to utilize a device provided by WesternU
  • University supplied computers:
    • Protected under University security protocols
    • Have required software installed
    • Include a docking station for hybrid workers, capable of supporting up to three monitors
      • Please fill out the Work from Home/Hybrid IT Equipment Evaluation for assistance with your telecommuting technology needs 
    • Connect directly to WesternU secured cloud storage locations
  • Personal devices:
    • Must not have any confidential student, employee, or WesternU information saved to the device
      • University information must be saved only to WesternU approved networks, devices, and cloud storage; never directly to your personal device
      • You must create a separate account on your device to protect information
      • Passwords must not ever be written down or saved on your device
  • All devices require security protocol. Please review the WesternU Cybersecurity Awareness Course to ensure you are following best practices

Connecting From Home

• Review the WesternU Telecommuting Policy for required and recommended internet speeds
• Utilize online speed tests such as Speed Test to test your home speeds
• Improving internet speeds at home
  • Avoid remotely connecting to computers on campus, as adding multiple connections will slow your speed
    • If you are using remote connection to access network folders (J: Drives, etc), follow these instructions to map your drives to your computer
    • If you are remotely connecting to access specific software, contact IT to find if that software can be installed on your device
  • Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to improve/upgrade your connection
  • Ensure your router and modem are up to date and working correctly
  • Consider connecting directly to your router with an Ethernet cable (example), available at most retailers and online.  This is generally the most inexpensive way to improve your connection

Remote/Hybrid Meeting Best Practices

• Ensure you have equipment to facilitate a comfortable meeting experience.  Each employee should utilize webcams and dedicated headsets for meetings.
• Reduce background distractions by utilizing a virtual background
• Reduce background noise and feedback by utilizing headsets 
• Ensure remote employees are included
  • Enunciate in shared meeting spaces
  • Be cognizant of talking over others and side conversations
  • Follow up with remote attendees with any conversations once the virtual meeting has ended
  • Consider utilizing Microsoft Teams for collaboration and communication to keep everyone up to speed

Collaborating Remotely

• Saving files to SharePoint and OneDrive ensures security, while also allowing documents to be accessed in a collaborative space
• Microsoft Teams can be utilized in many ways for collaboration:
  • Chat with an individual or group promotes connection
  • Creating a Team for your Department can keep your whole team connected and sharing information
  • Adding Microsoft Lists or To Do to your Team can assist with assigning tasks, planning projects, or organizing events within your team
• Remember to make meetings virtual with the option of meeting in a collaborative space that can accommodate the virtual attendees

Remote Employee Support

• IT, Facilities, and other Employee support services can be requested through the WesternU Support site
• All support departments are available via telephone
• Employee resources, training, time card, benefit, and payroll information can all be accessed remotely through the University Portal

Employee Acknowledgment

• Please fill out this form to acknowledge you have completed this training

Additional Training