Take the headache out of managing remote teams by using these online tools.
Managing a remote team presents a unique set of challenges that can put your leadership skills to the test. With team members spread over a number of different time zones, coordinating a project and successfully carrying it out to completion can cause more headaches than anyone has ever imagined. Thankfully, there are now a lot of tools that can be used to simplify the process.
Online Tools for Managing Remote Teams
Here are some of the most useful online tools managers use in working with their remote teams.
Skype
Despite the fact that some people find a number of issues when using Skype, it remains to be one of the most popular conversation apps online. By using Skype, you can stay connected with your team through voice, video and text chat. It even allows you to talk to up to 9 people at one time with its group calling feature.
HipChat
HipChat works a lot like Skype but this online platform was specifically developed for business. You can use this app for private chats, group chats and video calls. Since it provides ample security, you can also use it to share files with your team. HipChat is free to use for the first 30 days but you will need to pay around $2/person if you want to continue using it.
Dropbox
Since its inception in 2008, Dropbox remains to be one of the top choices for managing and sharing files between team members. Dropbox is free to use but businesses that need to share larger files may need to sign up for a premium account.
Trello
You can organize and further simplify your project management tasks by using Trello, a project management app that breaks everything down to visual project boards. It uses tag and card features to help users monitor their progress and keep track of their projects. Trello also syncs perfectly with all your devices so you can stay on top of things no matter where you are. Best of all, Trello is free to use.
HighRise
If you are managing a sales team, this app can help you keep track of important tasks (including those that you have assigned to your team members), set reminders, and manage communications. You can also use it to update your team about the status of any deal or relationship, and add files and/or attach emails to deals and projects.
Basecamp
Basecamp is definitely one of the best project management apps available today. You can use it to communicate, share files and collaborate documents with your remote team. You can also use it to assign specific tasks to your team members and check due dates. By using Basecamp, you can keep everything organized and secured in one place.
