Over the next several weeks, we’ll be sharing our insights on the best practices and psychology of remote work. We’ve been working with partners on four continents and across time zones for years. To help curb the spread of covid-19, we’ve gone remote and so far have seen a spike in our collective productivity. 

We are asking Xische team members to share some of their tips and tricks in this department. After all, who doesn’t love a good list of the best apps and platforms to make your digital life easier? In this edition, we speak with Baris Gulmez, our director of engineering, to find out his approach to digital work.

Baris Gulmez, Director of Engineering

By Xische Editorial, March 24, 2020

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am from Istanbul, where my family still lives. Right now I handle engineering management for Xische teams from Abu Dhabi.

Describe your daily workflow.

Every day starts with emails and checking other communication channels like Slack first thing. I then move on to daily scrum meetings with teams to get caught up on everything happening around the organization. Because of my role and responsibilities I am involved in lots of meetings during the day. Including regular meetings like Sprint reviews, planned meetings for coordination and ad-hoc meetings for last minute requirements and problems.

What’s the last great app you used?

Zoom Mobile for remote meeting. Very convenient and simple. Simpler is better.

What’s your remote working strategy?

I always follow a routine, like waking up at the same time every day, and having a proper breakfast. My alarm clock is set up as if I am physically going to the office.

I have a daily plan, regular lunch break time and defined end of working hours. I push and encourage myself to finish my work at the end of the working hours, unless there is an urgency or last minute issue. I always plan the day as much as I can. I try to keep communication strong with my close working colleagues. Regularly talking with them for catch ups, if even it seems there is no need. I grab and give a lot of information during these regular catch-ups. I always have a To Do checklist. I always try to spend some time with my family even if it is a Skype call.

What is the best non-famous app you love on your phone? 

Samsung Smart View. You can reflect your phone screen on your TV. So that you can use your smart TV as an external monitor for your online meetings or you can use your phone as a Smart TV device.

Tell us the story of a rabbit hole you fell deep into. 

In the first week, I overloaded myself by working. So I realized that during the days and nights I was working without taking care of myself. I have noticed that this starts to be un-sustainable and overwhelming. Then I decided to plan and regulate my days.

What is the key to successful remote working?

Putting daily targets and routines. Taking regular breaks. Remembering to eat healthy and make some fitness workouts at home. Keeping communication strong with your colleagues and family.