Pushing the boundaries: how the channel powers hybrid and remote working

It's not groundbreaking to say working models have changed

Let's skip over all the talk around 'the new normal' in a post-2020 world and focus on the topic at hand. 67% of adults in the UK operate a hybrid working lifestyle, and businesses need to have the right tools and solutions in place to support these models. Considering 98% of workers have a desire to work remotely, at least some of the time, for the rest of their careers.

Hybrid working? It's here to stay.

We see Channel partners that enjoy the greatest success by focusing on a combination of technological solutions, guidance, and managed services. Their customers are looking to modernise their infrastructure, adapt to these evolving models, and continue to thrive in their respective markets.

If those operating in the Channel can't provide that support, then those customers will be left in a tough position. Businesses need to have that competitive edge in what's becoming a busy, congested marketplace. When working alongside a partner with "shared values and shared beliefs", those end customers can benefit from a mix of solutions that meet their precise needs. 

Transitioning to the cloud

77% of UK-based Channel partners have customers that require specialised cloud skills. However, only 56% feel confident about meeting that demand, which comes at a time when 93% of those partners see developing a cloud practice as a top priority. Those statistics paint a picture on just how integral cloud transition is within the UK Channel community.

The benefits of working in the cloud speak for themselves. Employees now have the flexibility to work away from traditional office spaces, while businesses see reduced costs by removing legacy on-premises infrastructure.

These are the conversations partners are having with their customers, and it's down to providers to be proactive in supplying those solutions. Technology is a rapidly moving environment; partners want to work alongside someone who "continually evolve their propositions" and go deeper in providing that added value.

With that kind of technology in place, partners can offer an environment that champions collaboration and makes remote working more seamless than ever before.

Cyber security

In the last 12 months alone, 43% of businesses have experienced some kind of cyber breach. Shifting working patterns mean there's a larger attack surface to monitor and keep under surveillance. An increased use of personal devices, more sophisticated phishing attacks, and unsecured home networks make the situation more difficult.

Little surprise then that the average cyber security budget for a UK organisation has grown by 31% in 2025.

At the forefront of Channel cyber security are MSPs. These trusted advisors are delivering robust security solutions, including MDR services, Managed SOC and dark web monitoring tools. MSPs are crucial when safeguarding remote environments, and partners should be readily taking these services to not just open new revenue streams but keep their own customers secure.

Unified communications

With work being taken further, the need for seamless, unified communications have never been more important. Lacking those tools only leads to issues around delays, reduced efficiency and hampered productivity. For those operating in the Channel, providing that centralised communication hub can make a huge difference.

Combining voice, video and direct messaging allows easy communication, regardless of location. These solutions are accessible across numerous devices, helping your partner's employees stay engaged and maintain productivity.

It's why solutions such as Microsoft Teams and Webex have proved a popular choice in the UK Channel community. On Gamma's side, we've seen over 1300 units of our Webex for Gamma solution provisioned via an early access programme. Our partners understand their customer's needs and wants regarding unified communications, and now have the capabilities to better support them.

Support, training and consultation

Solutions are just one side of the story. Partners need to have readily available support to stay competitive, especially as technology evolves. Choosing the newest, shiniest solutions always feels like the best way forward, but usually, it only leads to long-term issues.

To be agile in today's market, businesses need to "[utilise] partner support where possible." Finding the right tone of voice and conveying that expertise to customers build that long-term success. All that comes through collaboration.

The Channel must retain that partner-centric approach, with its finger on the pulse when it comes to taking services further. Dedicated onboarding and support teams must always be looking to align investments with specific long-term goals. Digital transformation comes through taking a step back and assessing the playing field.

One Partnership. Endless Possibilities

Hybrid working remains a popular choice, and the UK Channel must be ready to give partners the ability to support it. Whether that's through solutions or support, the idea of 'partnership' should always be applied.

Gamma's own 'Good Together' approach is soundly rooted around the mantra of partnership. From our own Channel journey, we've created a wide portfolio of products that support the wants of our partners as they re-imagine their business communications. They can deepen customer relationships, create new revenue opportunities, and build that future resilience.

Yes, the UK Channel is a competitive environment, but we're all working towards the same goal.