Gone are the days where companies frequently rely on emails for work collaboration. With advancement in technology, there are now so many tools that staff can use to collaborate with each other on a given assignment. These collaboration tools allow for multi people to make changes to a document – anytime – from any computer. Some of these tools come with in built software that sends out alerts when someone is logged on or an update is made.
It is important for leaders to create an active environment for everyone to be willing to get on board and participate in using whatever tool that has been chosen. Forbes in an article further gives an insight into the usefulness of some select collaboration tools.
There are some important factors to look for while choosing a collaboration tool for your organization:
Ensure tool is easy and simple for anyone with little or no technology skills
Establish rules and policies governing usage of the tool or platform
Encourage top managers especially generation Yers to lead the fort, this starts communication and excitement flowing from top to bottom
Which Tools Are Good For You?
LibGuide is an interactive online platform that lets organizations create, edit and share content with users. LibGuides can also be a great collaboration tool for libraries – any kind of library. LibGuides provide libraries an effective means for sharing information and updates with patrons. They are easy to build and edit. You can embed multimedia, integrate Lib chat as well as social media buttons.
Already some companies are way ahead in implementing some of these collaboration tools. For instance, Nationwide in their effort to improve collaboration among staff decided to create their own collaboration tool which they named SPOT. This platform was widely embraced and has become a huge boost to the flow of information both within and outside the company. Other tools with similar approach for companies and organizations are Yammer, and Podio.
Similarly, individuals can find great benefits from some collaboration tools. I’ve personally used Delicious for bookmarking but I prefer the easy and simple interface of Skydrive. In the mix is Apple’s iCloud. I love iCloud because I own a Mac, an iPod and an iPad. So it easily syncs my content across all my devices and pushes updates as soon as they occur.
The versatility of cloud computing has brought us other online storage tools – SugarSync and Dropbox. Dropbox was really handy for me in grad school to store all my class notes and assignments – God forbid you forgot an assignment or a class presentation paper, though there are people who prefer SugarSync – however, that’s a choice you have to make.
During my research, I came across Box.net which I really haven’t used but plan to to try. For further info on these guys, check out this article on Mashable.
As with many other online social software and platforms, there are pros and cons associated with this form of communication.
Pros – Effective use of time, sharing knowledge (which can also be a con), flexibility – meaning anyone with a login access can contribute and edit work at any time from any computer, quick dispersal of information, Increase in productivity.
Cons – Fear of losing information stored in the cloud due to the possibility of a computer glitch. Staff misuse of company time on the internet, login access entering the wrong hands.
Finally, It’s a great idea to consider the make up of your company and do a test drive to help you decide what might be best for your organization.
I’m sure there’s a whole lot of other tools out there – what did I leave out?
Title: Memoirs of a Geisha
Author: Frederick Forsyth
