73
Set Taskbar Shortcuts & Quick Access
Right-click any program icon on the taskbar to pin or unpin it. A similar function is found in the Quick Access panel located on the left side of a file browser. Right-click any folder to pin it to the Quick Access panel.
Set Default Applications & install some Software
Right-click the start menu > Apps and Features > Default Apps
To set the default application for PDFs, scroll down and click “Choose default apps by file type”.
Our company page (http://contisolar.sharepoint.com) is set as the homepage in Firefox, but other browsers will have to be manually adjusted.
Certain software like Google Chrome or Microsoft Teams can be installed without administrative authorization from IT. Software installers for these products will still prompt you to enter your password. Enter your password and follow the instructions to install the software. You can also install almost any software offered through the Microsoft Store.
No other software can be installed on company computers without authorization from IT.
Use OneDrive to ensure regular data backups and version history of important files
Sign in to OneDrive by clicking the gray cloud icon in the system tray near the clock. When you sign into OneDrive a special folder will be created which is regularly backed up to the cloud. The steps below show how to sync other folders on your computer in addition to the default folder:
Click the cloud button in the system tray > Help & Settings > Settings > Backup > Manage Backup
Choose the folders you want to back up and hit start back up.
Use the Recover files from Teams or SharePoint guide to access version history for synced files
Manage Multi-factor authentication & save logon credentials
The first time you log into your Microsoft account you are required to provide a phone or other device as an added layer of security.
To change these settings, go to the homepage and click the gear icon next to your profile picture on the top right > update contact preferences > Manage Security & Privacy > Additional Security Verification > Update your phone numbers used for account security.
You can also click this link instead: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info
Generally, all Microsoft services and software should keep your password saved and you should not need to log in frequently. If you are frequently prompted to enter your password and provide verification, your browser settings need to be adjusted.
General Suggestions for Daily Communications
The following guidelines were summarized by Jan Ramkumar, Director of Estimating:
COVID-19 has forced all of us to rethink how we go about our day on both personal and professional fronts. Business communications is key to what we do on a daily basis and working remotely has definitely made it more challenging.
Given the fast-paced nature of our business, current work conditions can easily cause miscommunication, misunderstanding and misrepresentation. The following are some pointers to help improve communication within the team in these unpredictable times,
Best Practices:
-
Adopt tools that the majority of the employees are using – Use MS Teams for daily meetings, huddles, quick messaging…. but with some ground rules. This outlet is not a repository for GIFs, jokes, and debates on non-work-related topics. Remember that HR policies apply on MS Teams as well!  Please review the Corporate policy manual Chapter 3 – Workplace Etiquette, and Chapter 9 – Information Technology Policy (Usage & Compliance).
-
Know when to use email – Assigning action items, giving directions, client/ subcontractor/ vendor communication, quote/ price discussions, and basically any communication which may need to be tracked in the future should use email.
-
Know when to have an audio or video call – Sometimes a text message or Teams message can be misinterpreted. If you have to convey exciting news, disappointing news, constructive criticism, honest feedback, or conduct performance reviews, chose a phone call or Teams video chat over other mediums.
-
Respect work-life balance – Instant messaging allows us to reach out to anyone at any time. Unless communication is extremely time-sensitive, resist the urge to message the individual until the next business day.
-
Value everybody’s time – Just because you have the access to reach multiple people at the same time does not necessarily mean that you need to. Think through the message and only communicate to the appropriate people.
Keep Up the Team Spirit By:
-
Switching to video meetings on Teams instead of conference calls
-
Having a weekly 1 hour virtual social event on Teams with your team (coffee, lunch, drinks, etc.) …. and try not to discuss work!
-
Checking in on team members regularly
-
Sharing some at-home activities
-
Leading by example
