The conversation begins with a discussion on the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the workforce. According to a survey conducted by Parallels' parent company Alludo, 83% of the workforce is expected to continue working remotely in some capacity. This shift has presented significant challenges for companies that were previously accustomed to a fully in-office model. Many organizations struggled to provide the necessary remote access and security measures to support their employees working from home. 

Chris Marks explains that the primary challenges companies face relate to skills and time, as they try to re-architect their IT infrastructure and security posture to accommodate the new remote work reality. Traditional solutions like VPNs are no longer sufficient, as they provide broad access once an attacker gains entry. Parallels is helping customers explore alternative solutions, such as secure access web apps and Zero Trust approaches, to minimize risk and restrict the flow of potential threats. 

The discussion then transitions to the concept of the "hybrid cloud," which Marks clarifies is often misunderstood. Many organizations believe they have a hybrid cloud environment, when in reality, they are simply managing two separate infrastructures - their legacy on-premises systems and new cloud-based projects. Parallels aims to help customers deliver a consistent and seamless experience for end-users, regardless of the underlying infrastructure. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Remote and hybrid work models are here to stay, with 83% of the workforce expected to continue working remotely in some capacity.
• Companies are struggling to provide the necessary remote access and security measures to support their employees working from home.
• Traditional solutions like VPNs are no longer sufficient, and organizations are exploring alternative approaches like secure access web apps and Zero Trust.
• The concept of "hybrid cloud" is often misunderstood, with many companies managing two separate infrastructures rather than a true hybrid environment.
• Parallels is helping customers deliver a consistent and seamless experience for end-users, regardless of the underlying infrastructure.

Links from the show:

• Website: https://parallels.com/
• Hybrid cloud survey: Hybrid Cloud Report | Parallels RAS

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
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