More companies should be deploying remote working technologies to minimise disruption caused by emergencies, IT outsourcing users have been told.

Alistair McKinnon, senior product manager for IP multimedia at Virgin Media Business, pointed out that events such as the heavy snowfall in January and the current volcanic ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull in Iceland have caused problems for business travellers.

However, the expert explained that remote working technologies can lessen the impact of these occurrences and allow companies to keep operating as normally as possible through an emergency.

“It amazes me that more organisations don’t embrace some of the newer technologies that are available to minimise disruption on their organisation,” he added.

Mr McKinnon also claimed that remote working applications are useful on a day-to-day basis, as well as in emergencies. He pointed out that they permit firms to take advantage of video conferencing and allow them to let their employees work from home.

Last week, Outsourcery claimed that companies which have invested in IT services such as unified communications have been less affected by flight cancellations than firms which still rely on business travel.