Our Favorite Tools for Remote Work
As a fully virtual business, we have a "tech stack" that is optimized for working remotely. As more businesses are having to suddenly switch to a remote work model due to the disruptions from the COVID-19/ Coronavirus pandemic I am listing our most frequently used tools here in hopes that it will help you narrow down the options in your search.
Virtual Meetings- Zoom
We use Zoom for all meeting, it's easy to join via computer, via mobile app, by dialing in via phone. We usually use video but you can also have audio only meetings. We can share screen, do remote control, record and much more.
Popular Alternative: Skype for Business, Google Meet
File Storage- Google Drive
This is not the same as the free Google Drive designed to store personal photos. We use GSuite aka Google for Business which has security and other features that the free version lacks. GSuite offers a lot more than just file storage, we also use it for email, calendar and more. All of the tools are built with remote collaboration in mind.
Popular alternative: Dropbox
Task Tracking/Project Management- GQueues
This tool is built specifically for GSuite which is why we love it so much as it integrates seamlessly with our calendar and email so nothing falls through the cracks and we can time block, it's easy to assign tasks and all team communication stays together with it's corresponding task/project.
Popular alternatives: Asana, ClickUp
Team Communication- Slack
We don't "need" this tool because all work related communication is in GQueues and linked to the relevant task/project. We use Slack for general "water cooler" type of conversations, sharing funny memes, links to articles and general chat to maintain our team bond and corporate culture but it can do so much more. We don't use it a whole lot but it's nice to have. I know a lot of teams that use this as their primary tool for all team communication instead of email.
Popular Alternatives: Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams
Video Communication- Loom
While we use Zoom for real-time video communication. Loom is great for asynchronous communication where it's faster to demonstrate something than to try to explain it in writing or by phone. You can record your screen, your camera or both and talk while showing how something is done.
Password Security- Lastpass
Security is of the utmost importance and this means using complex and unique passwords that get changed often. The only way to achieve this is by using a password management app. We are able to share logins securely and use their Authenticator app for 2 factor authentication which is safer than SMS verification.
Popular Alternative: Dashlane
VPN- NordVPN
Cyber security is critical in our business and for this reason we don't do any work without using a VPN to encrypt our internet connection.
Popular alternative: ExpressVPN
Remote Computer Access- Splashtop
While we no longer have a need to remotely access computers because all of our tools and files are in the cloud. I realize that you may need this type of tool when first getting started in transitioning to virtual work. We loved Splashtop in the past.
Popular Alternative: Teamviewer
Check out our YouTube channel for videos on tips on how to help your business survive the economic impacts of the Coronavirus and working remotely while your kids are at home. Feel free to share your comments or video/blog ideas.
We are happy to assist our clients with any questions about these tools or remote work to help your transition during this difficult time. Stay well.
