The world of remote work has been rapidly evolving over the past decade, and with it, the tools we use to stay connected and productive. While more companies are now recognizing the value of remote work and implementing policies to support it, many employees are still struggling to find the right mix of tools and processes to make the most out of their time working from home.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, remote work means employees are able to work from the comfort of their own homes, utilizing the same tools and applications they would use in the office. This has opened up access to more employees and allowed businesses to access a larger talent pool.
However, with more companies embracing remote work, the challenge of finding the right tools to keep teams connected has become more complex than ever before. With the rise of video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management tools, employees need to have access to a variety of tools to remain productive.
To help employees find the right combination of tools and processes to make remote work a success, we’ve identified five essential remote work tools and the best practices for using them.
1. Communication Tools: Video conferencing, chat, and messaging apps are essential for teams to stay connected and collaborate on projects. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Slack are all popular options.
2. Project Management Tools: To keep track of tasks, schedules, and deadlines, employees need to have easy-to-use project management tools. Asana and Trello are both popular, as well as Basecamp and Microsoft Project.
3. Cloud Storage: With remote work comes remote storage, and employees need reliable storage solutions to ensure they have access to their files from anywhere. Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive are among the best options.
4. Productivity Tools: To stay on track, employees need the right tools to manage their workload and stay organized. Google Calendar, Trello, and Asana are all great options.
5. Security Tools: Staying secure while working remotely is an essential part of any remote work setup. To ensure data is protected, employees need to use reliable security software and tools, such as antivirus, VPNs, and password managers.
When choosing remote work tools, it’s essential to consider each team’s needs and budget. By understanding the requirements of each role, employees can choose the best tools to get the job done – and stay productive.
