8 Essential Virtual Team Tools for Collaboration

Hiring a virtual assistant was once described as a very risky move.

Oftentimes, the lack of physical interaction makes collaboration on tasks and projects difficult.  In addition, achieving maximum work efficiency was challenging at the very least.

But unlike yesterday’s outsourcing plight,  entrepreneurs today already has access to all the necessary tools that make working with a virtual team a whole lot easier.

Nowadays, a multitude of virtual team tools have made collaboration between entrepreneurs and virtual assistants more straightforward.  Working together, either remotely or locally, is now more transparent and accessible than ever.

Having said that, here are the top 10 most valuable tools you can use to enhance collaboration between you and your virtual team.

1. Dropbox.

It’s a cloud storage host that allows users to save documents, photos, and videos for easy file storage, access, and sharing, anytime and anywhere. It can be integrated with Mac and Windows. Dropbox is also accessible through mobile devices and syncs automatically with your computer. The software is subscription-based, but offers an initial 2GB free storage.

2. Basecamp.

A comprehensive web-based project management tool that promotes transparency and collaboration with the team or the people involved in a project. You don’t have to be an IT expert to use the tool. Anyone in the team can store files, post tasks, create due dates, and start discussions relevant to the project. It also allows project managers and members to know the tasks that need to be done; the person behind the completion of those tasks; and the projects that are driving favourable momentum.

3. TeamViewer.

A software tool that allows people to control another PC remotely. It’s a screen-sharing tool that usually comes in handy when giving assistance or teaching new tasks to your virtual assistant. It’s free to use, but businesses can purchase the business version for $749.

4. Skype.

While there are plenty of chat tools out there, Skype comes in as the first choice for most of the people who work in remote locations. Its popularity can be credited to many of it’s helpful features, including the ability to hold face-to-face meetings. This feature can come in very handy if you wish to conduct regular small-group meetings with your virtual team.

5. Google Docs.

This enhances team collaboration by allowing members to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and slides in real-time. It’s obviously web-based unlike Microsoft and only requires a Gmail account. Everything that’s made in Google Docs will be automatically saved in Google Drive, which is Google’s free cloud storage.

6. Jing Project.

This can be used to record screen shots or videos, which can be uploaded to Screencast for your virtual staff to view. Jing also allows users to select any window or area on the screen to record.

7. GroupMe.

A free group messaging tool that works on various mobile and computer devices. Those who choose not to install the app on their devices can still receive the messages from the app through texts.

8. LastPass.

This tool allows users to share their passwords and other login information with others to minimise security risks. There are two ways to make use of the tool. If the password is given directly, the other person can see and use it. If it’s shared, he may not be able to see the exact password but he can still use it.

A collaborative culture is vital to success whether you are in a small, medium, or large organisation. Fortunately, unlike a few decades back, tools such as the ones mentioned are now available to effectively keep your virtual team connected and in sync.

The post 8 Essential Virtual Team Tools for Collaboration appeared first on My Virtual Workforce.

from My Virtual Workforce http://ift.tt/1HyMs6H

from WordPress http://ift.tt/1c8G7kc