The threat of strike action from the London transport system could create new opportunities for IT contractors as companies look to roll out the technologies necessary for remote working.

Mark Lewis, senior director for marketing and alliances at Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Riverbed, claims that the industrial action will affect organisations in a different way.

He said that there will inevitably be a decline in work productivity in any scenario where employees are unable to get access to their companies' systems.

"It makes sense for both employers and employees to look into these technologies to determine if they are capable of working in a remote work environment on short notice," he asserted.

Mr Lewis highlights the potential rail strike as one of the times where remote working can be a strong disaster recovery precaution.

A series of 24-hour strikes could be taking place over a row about outsourcing and new rosters.