Five key tech areas for 2011

3. TeleworkingThese days, the internet, social networks and smartphones help staff to be productive away from the office. Just the same, teleworkers remain something of a rarity in many firms. It may be time for HR to take a lead on the issue.

As cloud computing begins to show signs of maturing, and given the ubiquity of broadband connections, the practice of herding staff into office blocks is starting to look in all seriousness outdated. Now, managing an itinerant workforce can demand a change in culture - and that has to come from HR.

5. Training over social networksWhile training and development initiatives have evolved from classroom training to computer e-learning, the notion of undertaking HR-led courses after all sends a shiver down the spine of most employees. Now it needn't be that way. Engaging, participatory - even fun - courses can however be delivered using social networks, simulations and virtual environments.

The collaboration with colleagues - via conference calls, instant messaging or corporate social networks - forms a powerful system of on-the-job training, where individuals can set the agenda, tailoring their own training programmes to meet their needs.

"The Business of Risk Management" is one in a series of Verizon perspective papers focusing on critical business issues...