Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1248324
MAY 2020 I PCB007 MAGAZINE 31 Having the necessary virtual private network (VPN) infrastructure in place to allow remote workers to connect to the network was key to scaling the remote workforce smoothly. Maintaining Data Security We have always taken customer data secu- rity seriously, and that is reflected in our pro- active approach to cybersecurity. We adhere to National Institute of Science and Technol- ogy (NIST) cybersecurity guidelines and follow Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and De- fense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supple- ment (DFARS) requirements as we implement compliance to these standards. In addition to third-party penetration testing and monitoring of our systems, we began reinforcing previous training on how to avoid phishing emails and other cyber scams. Skills-based training for staff is the key to maintaining data security. Anyone who can log into the domain or back-end system should be invited to do this type of training. We give par- ticipants quizzes on the material and even dis- tribute false phishing messages to see if people fall for it. These drills could seem like traps, but our employees appreciate them, especially now that they are using the knowledge to pro- tect their home networks as well. Not Everyone Can Work From Home After design, PCB manufacturing has to be done on the factory floor. Keeping our produc- tion crew safe on the floor has always been our top priority. The pandemic requires some enhancements. Safety guidelines from state and federal agen- cies are always evolving and often conflict, so we continuously err on the side of enhancing safety, even if it complicates production. We routinely update guidelines and procedures to enhance the protection of the production team and minimize disruption. Protective measures include adapting our production workflows to accommodate dis- tancing guidelines and having key staff ob- serve production to ensure six feet of distance between each person. We also conduct regular employee interviews to determine the likeli- hood of third-party exposure. We request any- one even suspected of having contact with the virus to self-quarantine. Those showing signs of illness, even allergies, are asked to go home on paid leave. We also understand that during times of pro- longed stress, employee wellness is about more than distancing guidelines and hand sanitizer. Some members of our team feel it is too risky to come in even with the safety measures in place, so we give them extended leave without penalty. Prioritizing employee safety in this situation has enhanced our ability as an organization to respond to it. We communicate and train on new protocols for both remote and on-site staff quickly and effectively. Everyone at Sunstone is so far healthy, employed, and able to care for their families. Continuous Adaptation Is the New Continuous Improvement If you've already established a quality man- agement system (QMS) and even achieved In- ternational Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9000 certifications, you will have a leg up during a crisis. A good QMS helps keep you focused on ex- ceeding customer expectations and creating value in every aspect of the production pro-