Today we have a guest post from Lisa Reeves, general manager and vice president of the Access & Cloud line of business at Citrix Online.

Today's workforce is more mobile than ever. And being this mobile, we're able to keep business moving even when Mother Nature isn't on her best behavior. But did you know that according to the Insurance Information Institute, 40 percent of businesses affected by a natural or man-made disaster never reopen? In this age of mobility, that number is far too high.

For example, if a business employs teleworkers and they are set up before a disaster occurs, a business can decrease or avoid inoperability during and after a disaster. (Not to mention the many environmental benefits of teleworking such as cutting down on road congestion, energy demand and business efficiencies.)

So, without going into a full detailed business continuity disaster preparedness plan, why not start small with a mitigation strategy? Ready? Here are a couple things to consider:

1. Connectivity - Have available communications through an internet service provider or direct dial phone line as well as the needed equipment at both ends to establish and maintain communications. In light of a disaster, every company should be prepared with a backup location such as satellite offices, available space in another facility, or various locations where employees can carry out essential functions - even allow employees to work from home if safe to do so.
   
   
2. Proper mobility tools - The ones you'll need are a smartphone, a PC , Mac or tablet, and a webcam.
   
   
3. More mobility beyond gadgets - Once you've got the right tools, get the web-based software that allow employees to work from anywhere and stay productive - tools like instant messenger, video conferencing, and online collaboration will suffice for even the bare bones operations. You can also use tech to keep you informed and safe.

If you empower your workers with the flexibility to access company resources from wherever their work takes them, your business will be prepared, no matter when Mother Nature rears her ugly head.

Photo Credit: shuttersparks