A powerful shift in perspective

For enterprise software provider Cognition+, the pandemic was a catalyst for the shift to remote work, but other factors have made it the new status quo

Photo: Some of the Cognition+ team 

THE DEBATE AROUND hybrid and remote work ­continues to evolve, with businesses in London adapting based on their own needs and circumstances. For software company Cognition+, a firm supporting the technological needs and challenges of insurance companies, the development of a successful remote work strategy has been rooted in thoughtful decision-making.

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“Our remote work strategy is carefully designed, with well thought-out decisions. We pay attention to the data, our clients and our employees before we roll out any ­strategies,” shares Katie Thibeault, human resources ­manager at Cognition+.

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“We initially did make the switch to remote working because we all had to,” continues Thibeault. “However, when we did our semi-annual employee survey, it was ­evident that all our employees loved remote working. Based on that response, considering our operational efficiencies and continuing to develop at the same rate meant that there was no reason at all not to stick with this.”

Deploying a remote work strategy for businesses of any size encompasses much more than simply allowing employees the flexibility to work from their homes. On the business side of things, it means making the right ­technological investments, incorporating ways to continue inspiring human connections and implementing the right operational processes for great customer service and ­business growth.

Photo: The Cognition+ team 

With offices in Westmount Mall, Cognition+ downsized its space to be a more collaborative environment, creating shared meeting areas that foster teamwork and innovation. “Since we lessened the office space size, we were able to provide a $500 credit for employees to put towards what they need for a home office setup so they can work ­comfortably,” says Thibeault.

Understanding and recognizing the challenges associated with adjusting to the new operational structure, Cognition+ chief technology officer Greg Martin says extra efforts were made by the company to train and equip employees to ensure a smooth transition. “From a leadership point of view, particularly from our CEO down, there’s a sense that the company cares about the employees, and I truly believe that this understanding permeates down to other staff members,” says Martin.

Photo: Cognition+ president and CEO Matthew Scott

Every change brings its own set of challenges, and for Cognition+ those emerged when it came to collaborations. Making a heavy investment in determining and deploying the right technological tools, including Slack, Zoom and workflow management software, helped employees collaborate and continue to spark new ideas. “When we were in the office, we would just lean over to ask questions. New employees and co-op students could easily shadow their team members, so there were advantages in that sense,” notes Martin. “However, as soon as people began to ­understand how to effectively use the technology provided, we saw that they could collaborate well.”

Recognized for its work with a 2024 Best Remote Work Strategy Award at the Canadian HR Awards the year, both Thibeault and Martin believe the company’s emphasis on clear goal setting and objectives, creating accountabilities and transparent communication has set them up for continued business growth.

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“Our company’s focus has now really shifted to client growth, and we are seeing positive developments in our marketplace. I do believe that this positive uptick is also a reinforcing effect as when employees see that a company is doing well and they are seeing growth, they feel more confident, secure and that reflects in their performance,” says Martin.

“We’re really building momentum,” adds Thibeault, “and it’s just really exciting to be a part of something that our team is really proud of.” Article courtesy of TechAlliance