Difference between revisions of "GC Remote Working/Home"

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== <big>'''Accessibility and Remote Working'''</big> ==
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== '''Remote Working and Your Smart Phone''' ==  
  
=== '''Introduction''' ===
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Workplace technology tools are especially important when remote working and many GC workers rely on their smart phones in new ways. Here is some information about your smart phones to keep in mind. Note: Most GC mobile phones have two distinct spaces; personal and workspace. This post is related to the workspace only.
  
Working remotely and need help with adaptive computer technology or job accommodations?
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=== Instant Messaging Security ===
  
Experts from Shared Services Canada (SSC) can help!  The Accessibility, Accommodations and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) team has put together a list of top tips for accessible remote working.  
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We use smart phones for work and this use includes applications with instant messaging (IM) functions such as Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp and Blackberry Enterprise. Instant messaging provides a quick and easy way to communicate with coworkers.  
  
AAACT supports public service employees who have disabilities, injuries or require workplace adjustments, by providing access to systems, programs, computers, training, and computer resources to help them in the workplace.  
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However, users should know they are vulnerable to different security threats when using them and that IM applications are not entirely safe or private. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has a list of guidelines and tips for using these applications. Threat actors can gain access to the information you are transmitting. You should always be cautious of the sensitivity level of the data that you are sending through these applications.  
  
The AAACT team continues to serve clients during the COVID disruption via audio and video conference, and can ship equipment directly to where you are working.  
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Some applications advise that they have end-to-end encryption to protect information and messages. End to end encryption is a confidentiality service that encrypts the sender’s data (which means it converts information to hide its contents and prevent unauthorized access) and only allows the receiver to decrypt it. Although this seems like a high level of security when sending and receiving information, you should not rely entirely on end-to-end encryption to protect your data.
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To learn more about these and other instant messaging security guidelines, consult this [https://cyber.gc.ca/en/guidance/instant-messaging-itsap00266 Instant Messaging Alert] from the  Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.  
  
=== '''Contact AAACT!''' ===
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=== Microsoft Teams ===
  
The very first thing to do if you need assistance with job accommodations, adaptive solutions and technology is to contact the AAACT team by email at aaact-aatia@ssc-spc.gc.ca or reach them by phone at 819-994-4835, 1-866-44-AAACT (1-866-442-2228) or by TTY 819-994-3692 Monday to Friday, 9a.m. to 5p.m. Eastern Time.
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In the near future, as Departments roll out MS Teams as part of MS365, the tool will be made available on most GC mobile devices as well. This means Teams’ best features will also be available on your mobile device. Watch for the MS Teams app to appear on your GC mobile device and information from your CIO team.
  
=== '''Need a loan?''' ===
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=== Blackberry Enterprise (BBE) ===
  
AAACT also loans adaptive equipment and software for indeterminate employees to try out, and AAACT’s Lending Library can provide quick access to certain solutions to short-term employees for the duration of their employment.  
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Blackberry Enterprise (BBE) is formerly known as Blackberry Messenger. It is an application available for GC users and is installed on most GC-issued mobile devices. It provides secure mobile, cross-platform, messaging and is also a collaboration tool.  
  
==='''Microsoft Accessibility Resources''' ===
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To request a BBE account, email [emailto:ssc.smartphone-telephoneintelligent.spc@canada.ca send an email here] . Your reply with an activation link will arrive within 72 hours. *IMPORTANT* You MUST click on the link in the invitation email from your smartphone to activate your account.
  
With the GC making the move to M365 and TEAMS, it’s important to keep accessibility in mind when doing so. Check out [https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/accessibility/ Microsoft’s accessibility page] to get started . If you are looking for help with MS Teams, take a look at the [https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/accessibility-overview-of-microsoft-teams-2d4009e7-1300-4766-87e8-7a217496c3d5?ui=en-us&rs=en-us&ad=us Accessibility Overview of Microsoft Teams] which includes a list of Teams keyboard shortcuts  and [https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/accessibility-overview-of-microsoft-teams-2d4009e7-1300-4766-87e8-7a217496c3d5?ui=en-us&rs=en-us&ad=us help for screen readers].
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There is a BBE quick sheet available to explain more about BBE daily use; including adding how to contacts, starting and saving chats and more: (English) [https://www.gcpedia.gc.ca/gcwiki/images/c/c9/BBM_Enterprise_Quick_Sheet_EN.docx]
Microsoft also has a [https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/accessibility/disability-answer-desk?activetab=contact-pivot:primaryr9 Disability Answer Desk] for support with Microsoft Office Accessibility product issues, accessibility questions, and use of assistive technology. 
 
  
=== '''Make sure your presentations and documents can be read by everyone.''' ===
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=== Using Wi-Fi on Smart Phones ===
  
Working virtually means it’s even more critical that documents are accessible and usable by all. AAACT has created document accessibility guides to explain how to use the built in accessibility checker in MS Office. Make sure you create presentations and documents that everyone will be able to read.  
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SSC has worked together across the GC to enable the use of Wi-Fi calling from GC smart phones. Wi-Fi calling allows smartphone users to make and receive calls and to send and receive text messages over a public or private Wi-Fi and network, when cellular service coverage is inadequate.
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A Wi-Fi connection to the public internet is automatically used, instead of cellular radio access, to connect the user’s smartphone to the cellular service provider’s network for voice and message routing and completion.  For more information on which smartphones models are eligible for GC Wi-Fi calling, please consult:  [https://www.gcpedia.gc.ca/wiki/Government_Cellular_Services#Wi-Fi_CALLING ]
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Smartphone users who wish to use Wi-Fi calling feature, should switch on the Wi-Fi feature. There is no additional fee for Wi-Fi Calling. Voice and text charges are incurred as if a cellular connection was being used. Normally, if Wi-Fi Calling is being used, the smartphone data is carried over the Wi-Fi connection also, so cellular data is not used.  
  
=== '''Hold inclusive virtual meetings''' ===
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=== Your Phone as a Workstation ===  
  
Follow best practices for virtual meetings including:
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Working remotely means we are relying on our workplace devices in new ways. GC remote workers do not always need to use their laptop or tablet for their work tasks.
*send the presentation/material in advance
 
*mute your audio when not in use  
 
*follow speaker rules so only 1 person talks at once 
 
  
For more tips and suggestions, consult the [https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/disability/arc/inclusive-meetings.html planning inclusive meetings  guide].
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==== Samsung DeX ====
  
=== '''Guides and more information about AAACT''' ===
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If you have a Samsung device, you can essentially use your phone as a replacement for your laptop. The Samsung DeX allows you to connect your Samsung Galaxy phone to an HDMI screen and use it like you would your regular workplace device. The name “DeX” is a contraction of “desktop eXperience” and users can create a desktop-like experience by connecting a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. 
  
Visit  [https://www.canada.ca/en/shared-services/corporate/aaact-program.html AAACT’s Canada.ca page] to learn more about AAACT, or [https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=!APqg25xMSGibpck&id=3E8344A767CE3D84!106&cid=3E8344A767CE3D84 view and download] our Office 2016 or Office 365 document accessibility guides, see frequently asked questions, and read more about the Lending Library and how to access loans and support for short-term employees who have disabilities, injuries or need job accommodations. (NOTE: some Departments may block access to certain cloud services. If you have any trouble at all accessing the above link, [mailto:aaact-aatia@ssc-spc.gc.ca email] us to ask for a copy).
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You can also use your Samsung DeX on a tablet with no external monitor connexion required, use your Galaxy phone as a laptop companion by connecting your Galaxy phone to a PC or Mac computer.
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To learn more, read [https://news.samsung.com/ca/at-home-with-galaxy-make-work-from-home-a-breeze this article] from Samsung which details the ways you can work from home with your smartphone.
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French: you may be able to find it?
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==== iPhone ====
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When you need a larger screen for work, GC iPhones users can use a special feature to mirror their iPhone screen onto a monitor, television or tablet. To mirror your iPhone screen, go to Settings > Display & Sounds > Enable Display Mirroring. Then connect your desired device from your phone or tablet.
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The iPhone also features AssistiveTouch, which is helpful for accessibility tips for users who have difficulty touching the screen or pressing small buttons. A tap can help with everything from double-tapping, adjusting the volume, taking a screenshot to restarting the phone.  
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To learn more about this feature: [https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/iphone/iph96b21954/ios click here.]
 
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Revision as of 10:52, 22 July 2020


GC RW Banner English 1.png

Welcome to GC Remote Working

This new forum was created by experts at Shared Services Canada in an effort to help GC workers newly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic who find themselves working remotely.

This is an unprecedented situation; and one which is continually evolving. Remote workers need easy access to the latest information on the available tools and solutions as well as tips, best practices and updates.

Our aim with GC Remote Working is to gather the relevant remote working information in one place. We are only getting started. Our content is based on available information from all corners of the Government of Canada.

We plan to dive into topics such as security, information and document management, making “smart” use of your smart phone, using alternative tools and an introduction to Microsoft Office 365 and Teams.

Bookmark this page and check back often for more content as the situation evolves.

If you have tips and trick you would like to share, please send us an e-mail.

Remote Working and Your Smart Phone

Workplace technology tools are especially important when remote working and many GC workers rely on their smart phones in new ways. Here is some information about your smart phones to keep in mind. Note: Most GC mobile phones have two distinct spaces; personal and workspace. This post is related to the workspace only.

Instant Messaging Security

We use smart phones for work and this use includes applications with instant messaging (IM) functions such as Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp and Blackberry Enterprise. Instant messaging provides a quick and easy way to communicate with coworkers.

However, users should know they are vulnerable to different security threats when using them and that IM applications are not entirely safe or private. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has a list of guidelines and tips for using these applications. Threat actors can gain access to the information you are transmitting. You should always be cautious of the sensitivity level of the data that you are sending through these applications.

Some applications advise that they have end-to-end encryption to protect information and messages. End to end encryption is a confidentiality service that encrypts the sender’s data (which means it converts information to hide its contents and prevent unauthorized access) and only allows the receiver to decrypt it. Although this seems like a high level of security when sending and receiving information, you should not rely entirely on end-to-end encryption to protect your data. To learn more about these and other instant messaging security guidelines, consult this Instant Messaging Alert from the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.

Microsoft Teams

In the near future, as Departments roll out MS Teams as part of MS365, the tool will be made available on most GC mobile devices as well. This means Teams’ best features will also be available on your mobile device. Watch for the MS Teams app to appear on your GC mobile device and information from your CIO team.

Blackberry Enterprise (BBE)

Blackberry Enterprise (BBE) is formerly known as Blackberry Messenger. It is an application available for GC users and is installed on most GC-issued mobile devices. It provides secure mobile, cross-platform, messaging and is also a collaboration tool.

To request a BBE account, email [emailto:ssc.smartphone-telephoneintelligent.spc@canada.ca send an email here] . Your reply with an activation link will arrive within 72 hours. *IMPORTANT* You MUST click on the link in the invitation email from your smartphone to activate your account.

There is a BBE quick sheet available to explain more about BBE daily use; including adding how to contacts, starting and saving chats and more: (English) [1]

Using Wi-Fi on Smart Phones

SSC has worked together across the GC to enable the use of Wi-Fi calling from GC smart phones. Wi-Fi calling allows smartphone users to make and receive calls and to send and receive text messages over a public or private Wi-Fi and network, when cellular service coverage is inadequate. A Wi-Fi connection to the public internet is automatically used, instead of cellular radio access, to connect the user’s smartphone to the cellular service provider’s network for voice and message routing and completion. For more information on which smartphones models are eligible for GC Wi-Fi calling, please consult: [2] Smartphone users who wish to use Wi-Fi calling feature, should switch on the Wi-Fi feature. There is no additional fee for Wi-Fi Calling. Voice and text charges are incurred as if a cellular connection was being used. Normally, if Wi-Fi Calling is being used, the smartphone data is carried over the Wi-Fi connection also, so cellular data is not used.

Your Phone as a Workstation

Working remotely means we are relying on our workplace devices in new ways. GC remote workers do not always need to use their laptop or tablet for their work tasks.

Samsung DeX

If you have a Samsung device, you can essentially use your phone as a replacement for your laptop. The Samsung DeX allows you to connect your Samsung Galaxy phone to an HDMI screen and use it like you would your regular workplace device. The name “DeX” is a contraction of “desktop eXperience” and users can create a desktop-like experience by connecting a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

You can also use your Samsung DeX on a tablet with no external monitor connexion required, use your Galaxy phone as a laptop companion by connecting your Galaxy phone to a PC or Mac computer.

To learn more, read this article from Samsung which details the ways you can work from home with your smartphone. French: you may be able to find it?

iPhone

When you need a larger screen for work, GC iPhones users can use a special feature to mirror their iPhone screen onto a monitor, television or tablet. To mirror your iPhone screen, go to Settings > Display & Sounds > Enable Display Mirroring. Then connect your desired device from your phone or tablet. The iPhone also features AssistiveTouch, which is helpful for accessibility tips for users who have difficulty touching the screen or pressing small buttons. A tap can help with everything from double-tapping, adjusting the volume, taking a screenshot to restarting the phone.

To learn more about this feature: click here.

Topics:

Mental Health M365 Smartphone AV Conferencing Virtual Teams Information Management Accessibility
Mental Health attribution rqr'd1.png Blank.png M365 attribution rqrd1.png Blank.png Smartphone1.png Blank.png AVVC Icon1.png Blank.png Virtual Teams1.png Blank.png More Topics Coming Soon.png Blank.png Accessibility icon.png

Similar Communities and Forums

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Community of Practice

We joined in on the May 21st M365 Community of Practice meeting. We invited our friends leading the GC Flex initiative to present on team charters and trusted communications as it relates to remote working. Check out the recording here. Please note that you require a gccollab account for access.

Attributions and Sources

Attributions and Sources