In light of the current global trends of clusters and competition at all levels, along with the emergence of a revolution in communication and information technology, acquiring new markets while retaining old ones has become essential for all institutions. Thus, virtual institutions have emerged alongside traditional institutions to increase productivity, improve services, and rationalize and save costs.
Virtual institutions are geographically dispersed entities with specific tasks and activities conducted over the internet, without physical offices, but with a fixed online address that specifies the type of activity they engage in. They rely on creativity, innovation, speed, and flexibility in delivering products and services.
One of the advantages of virtual institutions is cost savings, as they do not require a large number of employees or physical office space. They are also flexible; talents and skills can be employed from around the world, and services can be provided from anywhere at any time.
Despite the advantages that virtual institutions possess, they face several challenges, including technical obstacles such as service interruptions due to network failures, administrative challenges related to the difficulty of communication and connection among employees, and the challenge of motivating them directly in person. There are also technical impediments, such as the risk of breaches and unauthorized access to confidential information and data belonging to companies and organizations.
For virtual institutions to succeed, they must overcome these challenges by enhancing communication and connection among employees and increasing their remote motivation to boost their enthusiasm and drive to work, thus eliminating the isolation they experience due to each employee working independently. Effective communication and connection can be achieved through social media, email, video conferencing, and other modern applications like Zoom.
Moreover, a key strategy for the success of virtual institutions is ensuring the security and protection of data and information against breaches and theft, accomplished through robust security programs, data encryption, and the implementation of cybersecurity measures. Institutions must regularly assess and evaluate to avoid negatives and enhance positives, while providing necessary training to team members for continuous improvement and creating an appropriate work environment that encourages uniqueness and excellence.
Given that the virtual institution is primarily an administrative entity, it is essential for leaders of virtual teams to possess the necessary expertise and skills to effectively manage virtual work and have the tools required to achieve that. Arab institutions must leverage the communication and information technology revolution and strive to establish effective virtual work environments to increase job opportunities, stimulate innovation, and maintain a sustainable economy.
