The workplace has employees using devices including a phone, tablet, laptop, and PC. It’s not uncommon seeing employees take work home with them. Or, remotely connect during irregular hours using company-issued devices.

Knowing how to sync your data provides the necessary mobility with work.

What are the different ways to sync devices and retain data integrity? Keep reading, we’re sharing a few, different ways to make it happen.

The Quick and Dirty Solution

Portable hard drives prove a quick and dirty way to synchronization data. Sending files back-and-forth using company email is another method. These methods are only effective if the user remembers to updated both points.

The process could/should include:

  1. Copying files to the HDD
  2. Working on files where need be
  3. Updating records when you return to the source

Taking great notes or a personal CRM tool to send reminders are a must. Otherwise, you’ll begin working on the wrong data version. Or, accidentally override important files with older (or newer) variations.

Sending files to yourself using email follows this same routine. And, has the same issues if you were to forget to update existing records. This is why it’s a quick and “dirty” method to file syncing.

Sync Your Data Using Software

Option #2 is taking this same concept of passing files but doing so automatically. This option is a middle-ground in control. You aren’t placing data into the cloud, but you’re not liable in holding data on-person.

There are a few ways to avoid using third-party, cloud providers:

  • End-to-End Encryption — Mozilla offers a file-sharing service using encryption. Other options include OTR and Resilio Sync. These are 1-to-1 transfers with better security features.
  • Private Servers — Using FTP, you could create your own version of cloud-based services. Except, you have complete control. Set up an encrypted server and you’ll have data synchronization.

Of course, you run into some of the same issues as manually moving files. But, you avoid third-party services who may cause privacy concerns.

Cloud-Based Applications and Services

Web apps are an easier solution to data synchronization. You likely use them already with tools like Dropbox, iCloud, or Insync.

Using these tools are like so:

  1. Install and configure tool access
  2. Select intended files/folders for syncing
  3. Run the tool’s synchronization

You then log into your account on both devices. The tool places data in the cloud, making it accessible on any device. Saving updates what’s stored on the server, updating itself on connected devices.

There are tools for synchronizing platforms, too.

Sync apps provide high-level data control and go beyond individual work data. These tools manage platform and app integration integrity. You’d use this option to connect CRM, email, phone, bookkeeping, analytics, and others.

The Seamless Work and Business Experience

Knowing how to sync your data offers great flexibility for productivity. An employee isn’t stonewalled from completing tasks. Nor does a business come full-stop at the end of the work period — everyone wins.

Use the experience to learn ways to optimize data interaction. Looking for more things to learn when it comes to technology? Check out our technology section where we have articles on topics like apps and blogging!