Calling All Government Agencies!

May 6th, 2011

Are you wanting to implement your own or improve your government agency’s telework program? If so, then you’ll want to register for our May 12th Telework NOW with Telework Plus webinar. Being a leader in the workspace solutions industry means we understand the challenges companies meet in the telework world and we want to show you how to create the most effective and efficient telework program possible.

Since President Obama passed the telework bill in 2010 government agencies are looking for ways to create and implement their own individual telework programs and we, at Metro Offices, have the answers you’re looking for. Through our online presentation, you will learn about “Telework Plus” and how it can benefit your agency. We will talk about benefits such as:

•Access to telework centers throughout Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia

•Dramatic reduction in cost of workstations

•Increase Productivity while Improving Job Performance and Employee Quality of Life

•Access to 40 meeting rooms, training facilities, and business lounges, allowing for meetings with clients or team members at most convenient Metro Office Center

•Online Reservation System to schedule workspaces, meeting rooms, private offices and training rooms

•And More!

If you are looking for innovative answers to your agency’s telework needs, then don’t miss Metro Office Telework webinar on May 12th! Register now!

Telecommuting and the Problems We Face

April 16th, 2011

It’s no secret that telecommuting is rapidly changing the business world as we know it. President Obama has even approved a bill giving government agencies 180 days to create telework programs for employees. Telecommuting is proven to save companies and the government billions of dollars a year which is why companies are quickly adopting telecommuting for their own employees. Metro Offices has been a leader in telework solutions for the Washington D.C. area for many years and can offer business owners some advice when it comes to communicating with telecommuting employees.

So what happens to office communications when your employees are all working from different locations? How do you keep communications clear and everyone on the same page? Sometimes phone calls, emails and instant messengers just aren’t enough. Well Metro Offices can help! We offer a program called Telework Plus which is essentially our telework services plus our virtual office services. It’s important that you gather your telecommuting employees together multiple times a year and our premier and accessible meeting locations around the D.C. area are perfect for team meetings.

You can also hold social, after work and holiday events for your entire staff. Many of these events can be held at Metro Office locations for your convince.

It’s important to keep trust alive and build relationships between co-workers and involving all of your employees in work procedures as well as casual events is the best way to do this. Without these things it can be easy for companies to sacrifice production and efficiency.

Contact us at Metro Offices and let us help you with your telecommuting solutions today!

DC Government Contractors Find Homes Away from Home through Virtual Offices

March 18th, 2011

When it comes to DC government contractors, anything that makes life on the road a bit easier and a bit more like home is more than welcome. A lifestyle that moves around from state to state, city to city, and even country to country is not one that’s heavily focused on stability and the comforts of home.

With transience the norm, even simple tasks like getting work done on time,  and in relative comfort and security, are less than simple. With more and more government contractors entering the workforce, and projects being completed more quickly than ever, adaptability is the name of the game. One of the best tools available to DC government contractors is the virtual office, offering the much-needed productivity tools and little touches of home that a busy life on the road demands, while also presenting options for short-term, no-obligation solutions that suit the lifestyles of such constantly on-the-move professionals.

Typically equipped with all the modern conveniences and benefits of the traditional office environment, a virtual office is appealing to modern D.C. government contractors from more than a standpoint of convenience. For many government employees, security and confidentiality are major concerns, making it less than prudent to work in commonly used hotspots such as coffee shops or cyber cafes.

Virtual offices are secure and private, and depending upon the level of security needed, are protected by key cards, access codes, and even boast private receptionists and administrative staff. Mail is processed through the address of a large, well-known office building, rather than through a P.O. Box, making it easier to comply with government regulations when away from home. Some facilities even offer highly-secure mail service, meaning only a limited number of administrative staff will have access to ingoing and outgoing documents.

In addition to the enhanced security that D.C. government contractors need, a virtual office offers distinct advantage to the traveling government employee. Flexibility is key, because with a virtual office, there’s the choice to work from the hotel, home, the office, or anywhere else you may desire. With a remote workspace, you’re in control of when you work and how you communicate with others, and you’re able to enhance productivity by making the commute only when it’s truly necessary, and during the hours it suits you.

You’ll also receive a comprehensive list of business and administrative support options that suit your busy lifestyle, and offer the flexibility and quality service it’s necessary for you to rely upon. As a D.C government contractor, this will free you from the burden of tasks that take valuable time and energy away from your work, and leave you with the peace of mind that comes from having a well-organized, efficient support staff in your corner.

The life of a busy D.C. government contractor certainly has challenges, in addition to a number of great rewards, but the benefits of a virtual office will help you establish the closest thing possible to a home away from home. Whether you’re in town for two weeks, two months, or even two years, this adds immensely to the value of both your time at work, and away from the office.

For more information on Washington Virtual Office, DC Meeting Rooms, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, FlexDesk and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

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Kathlene Buchanan is the president and founder of Metro Offices, one of the premiere, women-owned, executive office centers in the Washington, D.C. Metro area. With presence in 8 different locations throughout the capital area, Metro Offices offers a full range of innovative business solutions and advanced technologies to help businesses compete in today’s transitioning business environment. Buchanan has been in the industry since 1979, and Metro Offices has been operating since 1989 with locations in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

Business Solutions for DC Government Contractors

February 21st, 2011

For DC Government contractors the typical scenario is here today, somewhere else tomorrow. One of the top needs of government contractors is location flexibility. Given to one proprietary task this year, and another the following, the only certainty is change. With the recent explosion of the ranks of government contractors, virtual office space has become an ideal alternative to traditional offices.
Working out of a virtual office space is the best way for government contractors to maintain the flexibility their job requires while also operating out of a professional work environment.

Metro Offices caters to the needs of government contractors – from the inside out. We understand the importance of having a secure environment.  That’s why locked offices, badge access to elevators, and trained receptionists in every lobby are all standard in our infrastructure.

Here are some of the reasons government contractors are seeking virtual office space more than ever:

  • Many government contractors need a business address that complies with government rules and regulations. It is far more reputable to be able to use the address of a large office building than a home address or P.O. Box.
  • Virtual office space provides government workers a “secure” and secretive place to work on confidential tasks and information.
  • Government contractors often seek virtual offices because of their flexibility. Whether you want to telecommute or work in the office, virtual office spaces gives you this option, without being disconnected from your clients and colleagues.
  • Using a remote office or shared office space can help them react to new business opportunities more quickly, which gives them an advantage over their competitors.
  • Virtual office services allow government contractors to work more efficiently and maintain a professional interaction with their client. They spend less time handling administrative tasks, and more time focused on the task at hand.
  • Complete flexibility, excellent support, advanced technology, and complete security. In today’s business world, virtual office services are the solution more government contractors rely on for a secure, optimal work environment.

Learn more about services available for DC Government Contractors at http://www.metroffice.com/.

Options for DC Government Contractors Seeking Affordable DC Office Space

December 7th, 2010

The Obama administration’s new focus on healthcare and financial matters is expected to increase the number of jobs available in the nation’s capitol, particularly the number of opportunities for D.C. government contractors. Estimates predict that the number of job openings for this group will increase between 600,000 to 750,000 new positions in the next decade.

The increase, experts say, is expected to involve primarily private sector careers such as professional and business services, and will likely to be fueled by retirements, as more than 300,000 Baby Boomers begin to leave their jobs within the next five to seven years.

Unfortunately, with the national vacancy rate for office space hovering in the neighborhood of 17 percent, rental rates in Washington D.C. are also expected to increase, rising roughly 3 percent from their current rate of around $42 per square foot. Whether you are a newly employed contractor, or an established government employee rising in the ranks, choosing one of Metro Office’s Maryland, Virginia or DC office space locations can help you to spend less time and money on renting office space and more on accomplishing your work.

Locations and Amenities

D.C. contractors whose jobs involving interacting with or working for the movers and shakers in Washington, including members of the White House staff, lobbyists, or public advocacy groups will benefit from an office located at Metro Office’s Farragut Center. Situated less than a mile away from both the White House and K-Street, home to some of the nation’s most influential leaders and thinkers, these offices feature fully equipped meeting rooms, wireless Internet computers, and a range of office equipment.

If you are working for a business that does a significant amount of business with other companies, you would be best served to work from an office located in Metro Office’s main office, which is located at Metro Center. Located in the center of the city’s business district, just steps away from government offices as well as the Washington Convention Center, this office provides D.C. contractors with more than 60 customizable office selections complete with all the amenities required, as well as a lounge and a virtual club.

For more information about  DC Government Contractors Services, DC Meeting Rooms, and other  DC business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Blended Workforce Solutions Streamlines Work for DC Government Contractors

November 30th, 2010

The work environment for DC government contractors is typically fast-paced and ever-changing, which is why telework can be such a valuable tool. Thanks to the federal administration opening up more opportunities for federal agencies to incorporate telework, now is a great time for DC government contractors to increase productivity and leverage flexibility with the help of a remote working program.

The right program should include not only the necessary technology platforms and security for working remotely, but also available office space to use when necessary. Although working from the home office may be effective some of the time, there are other times when a fully-equipped professional office space or DC meeting rooms are essential to stay on task.

The Blended Workforce Model provides government contractors with the professional, secure office environment they need for important meetings and projects. Locked offices, badge access to elevators and trained receptionists in every lobby come standard at each Metro Office location.

For times when they prefer to work outside of the office, government contractors can have every piece of information they need at their fingertips thanks to cutting-edge technology available through Metro Offices’ Telework Solutions—an integral part of the Blended Workforce Model.

Not only does the Blended Workforce help contractors to increase productivity and save time, but it also helps clients to meet tight budget constraints. Clients utilizing the Blended Workforce Model have reported a significant decrease in the costs of maintaining an office and administrative personal. Every task and meeting can be accomplished through Metro Offices—no need for a separate office purchase or rental.

Because each contract is unique, Metro Offices works with government contractors to create the best combination of solutions, cutting out unnecessary expenditures and incorporating the services necessary to increase scalability and productivity. From telework solutions and virtual office services to shared office space and business support services, Metro Offices can help government contractors to achieve an ideal work environment and streamline business tasks.

For more information on Blended Workforce Solutions, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Temporary Office and Meeting Space for DC Government Contractors

November 5th, 2010

These days the most lucrative economic opportunities are being provided by federal projects and that, of course, requires out-of-state DC government contractors to set up office for a relatively short period of time. If you are contracting with the federal government and need a place to temporarily set up your office or hold a meeting, how can you find something affordable that comes without a long-term lease?

The answer is Washington virtual offices.

Whether you’ve visited DC many times in the past or this is your first time in the nation’s capital, there are certain things you should look for in the virtual office or meeting space you rent. Take a look at what you can expect from a short-term Metro Office rental.

Servicing the Needs of DC Government Contractors

How long is your project going to last? Some contractors work for very short periods of time while others may spend a year or more on a government project. Metro Office provides monthly, weekly, daily, or even hourly rates to ensure that you’re not paying for the space when you aren’t using it.

What type of support system do you need? Would administrative support be a big help while you’re in town? When you lease space from Metro Office, you also have access to the services of a virtual receptionist as well as a staff of professionals who can do everything from typing a report to notarizing your signature.

Need to meet with a local subcontractor’s team or hold a training session? Skip the noisy restaurant or pricey hotel meeting room. Metro Office provides facilities to host meetings big or small. The rooms are equipped with the latest technological devices, comfortable and attractive furnishings, and everything you need to record the meeting or add virtual attendees. Catering and beverage service is available, too.

Why pay for more than you need? DC government contractors who utilize virtual office space get to keep more of the profits from their federal project contracts!

For more information about Washington Virtual Offices, DC Government Contractors Services, DC Meeting Rooms, and other short-term business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Important Part of the DC Telework Discussion: Real Telework Success Stories

August 27th, 2010

Do a Twitter search on the word “telework” and you’ll find all kinds of tweets, ranging from “Yay, no commute–I get to telework tomorrow” to “Managers aren’t buying into telework.” There are articles and blogs throughout the Internet discussing this topic of telework and how it will impact federal agencies and DC government contractors.

If you peel back the layers of misinformation about how employees can’t possibly have the technology necessary to do their jobs effectively or how managers can’t keep tabs on lazy employees, you’ll find the true stories of telework.

For example, Danette Campbell, Senior Adviser for Telework with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, was featured in a GovernmentExecutive.com article, sharing that the organization’s 13-year-old telework program now has more than 5,600 employees working successfully from home at least one day per week. She writes that PTO has created a workforce that can work seamlessly from remote locations with all business units now participating in the telework initiative.

Campbell suggests having the right tools and structure in place has enabled their telework program to be successful. She points to the following as essential pieces to the telework puzzle:

  • Appropriate eligibility criteria
  • Pilot programs
  • Collaboration tools
  • IT and non-IT training
  • Enterprise-wide policy and business unit guidelines
  • Clear performance measures, and labor-management partnerships

It’s these telework success stories that are beginning to emerge that will convince skeptical managers and agencies that telework can truly work as long as the right solutions are in place.

DC Telework Solutions are available to help agencies and DC government contractors make the transition to working remotely streamlined and successful, so that productivity can remain high and flexibility can increase.

To learn more about DC Telework, Executive Office Spaces, and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

What’s next for DC Telework?

July 16th, 2010

The Telework Improvements Act passed late Wednesday in the House, and now many telework supporters as well as skeptics are left wondering, what’s next? There was much discussion on social media sites and in the media about the pros and cons of telework in the days and months prior to the bill passing, and now is the time when federal agencies and government contractors will put aside these discussions and move on to determine how to implement telework into their operations.

The bill, which passed 290 to 131, was designed to jumpstart the government’s telework program by expanding remote working options. The legislation requires agencies to appoint a telework managing officer to set up policy to encourage more employees to work from home or an approved center for telework like Metro Offices.

Federal agencies and government contractors will also receive more telework guidance through the bill, including policy for increased monitoring and guideline enforcement. For example, certain employees with a history of inappropriate Internet usage or excessive work absences will not be allowed to telework. Additionally, the Government Accountability Office will gather data to determine whether the telework programs are effective.

Agencies Will Succeed in Telework Efforts with the Right Support

As agencies and government contractors move forward to expand, or in many cases, establish telework programs, the right support and solutions will be essential to success. Having proven telework solutions in place will eliminate the trial and error typical of developing new programs.

Agencies utilizing Metro Offices’ telework solutions will begin Day One with all of the support and technology necessary to complete every work task remotely.  Even meetings and trainings can be handled with ease outside of the office, thanks to Metro’s fully-equipped DC meeting rooms.

With solutions including telephone answering services, professional administrative support, on-demand access to executive office space, and other virtual office services, agencies can gain a competitive advantage and be one-step ahead in adopting telework practices.

For more information on Blended Workforce Solutions, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Metro Offices Partners with DC Government Contractors, Agencies to Move Forward with Telework Initiatives

July 13th, 2010

A Federal Computer Week report recently revealed that government contractors and federal employees are not any happier with their agencies’ telework programs despite a push from the Obama administration to expand teleworking efforts.

Even with the numerous monetary and productivity benefits outlined for agencies, there is a resistance to changing the way business is conducted. With an understanding of the technology support and customized services available to DC Metro area government contractors and agencies, even skeptical agencies can partner with Metro to improve these statistics and get more employees on the track to telework success, fulfilling the call from the government.

In an area named as the “tech powerhouse” of the nation, the DC area offers great opportunity for government contractors to lead the way to increased telework efforts, providing an example for other businesses and industries across the country.

Metro Offices is a tech leader in its own industry, providing innovative telework solutions and on-demand executive office space, and can provide the support necessary for federal agencies to initiate or improve a telework program.

Metro Offices technology features include:

  • Managed, Secure IT infrastructure
  • High-speed bandwidth to suite any type of business
  • State of the art telephony
  • Customized phone answering and forwarding
  • Audio and Web conferencing programs
  • Full IT support packages for small business

With these services and more, federal agencies and government contractors can step out into the world of telework with confidence, knowing they have trained Metro Offices support staff to guide them through the process. The reality is that telework increases productivity and helps agencies to cut costs, so the primary barriers to success are skepticism and a resistance to change.

When more businesses are able to break through these barriers and access the telework solutions available to them, government contractors will work more efficiently no matter where their location, employee morale will increase and the DC Metro Area will become not only the tech powerhouse of the nation but also the telework leader.

For more information on Blended Workforce Solutions, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

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