Managing Digital Presence: A Comparative Cost-Benefit Analysis ofOnsite and Remote Operational Models
Eliza B. Ayo | Josan D. Tamayo | Joey O. Chua | Czarina Mitz Natino
Discipline: information systems
Abstract:
Organizations face critical decisions regarding work models for digital presence management (DPM) teams, where onsite and remote operations present distinct trade-offs in cost, security, collaboration,
and engagement. This study developed and compared scenario-based
cost-benefit models for four staffing configurations (30, 60, 90, 150
workers) across onsite and remote DPM operations. We employed a
scenario-based comparative analysis using projected operational
data for hardware, software, licensing, staffing, and infrastructure
costs (denominated in PHP). Social media engagement projections
were based on a 3.5% organic reach rate, benchmarked to the dominant Philippine platform, Instagram. Sensitivity analysis was included. Remote operations demonstrated 21–28% monthly cost savings (PHP 669,850–1,337,250 vs. PHP 850,600–1,860,600 onsite).
Cost per 1,000 projected reach was lower for remote models (PHP
2.66–3.18) compared to onsite (PHP 3.37–4.43). Onsite models incurred substantial upfront infrastructure costs (PHP 532,428–
2,002,256). While remote DPM offers significant cost advantages,
achieving equivalent security requires investment in advanced frameworks, which may offset a portion of the savings. The decision framework must therefore prioritize organizational security requirements,
governance needs, and budget constraints alongside cost efficiency.
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