Dixons stores deploy Office 365 in a move towards flexible working

All too often in a discussion about flexible working, the sceptics revert to an image of “working from home” being more like “shirking from home” and only really available for working parents and privileged senior managers.

But Anywhere Working and the ability to work flexibly is really all about being where the work can be done most effectively and, for retailers, that is undoubtedly as close to the customer as possible and in a position to answer any questions and provide the best possible service.

Working from home vs. Shirking from home

Dixons’ rollout of Office 365 is part of the company’s move towards a more mobile strategy, which will mean that colleagues do not have to be at a fixed point to receive information or work collaboratively. The company is equipping previously disconnected store staff with email addresses and creating central websites to post and share information on products, offers and the business as a whole.

This article in Computing has more details on the story and Dixons Retail’s IT Director, Matt Horwood, explains what the company is trying to achieve:

“The implementation of Office 365 will significantly improve the way we work together within the organisation. But more importantly, improve the way that we interact with our customers. As a company that provides consumers with cutting-edge technology and consumer electronics, it is crucial that we continue to be progressive in how we deliver service.”

“Office 365 will not only increase the amount of time that our staff can spend on the shop floor, but also arm them with the right information to serve customers effectively. As well as the external-facing benefits, it will help us create more of a team ethos within the business and allow us to work even better together.”