Distributed teams must-haves in 2021

Is your team working remotely? Discover the distributed teams must-haves in 2021.

Distributed or remote teams are the new normal after COVID-19. Since remote working isn’t likely to go away anytime soon, it’s important to look into the must-have tools that your distributed teams should use to work efficiently and to meet all their goals on time.

Let’s take a look at some of the best tools you can leverage for your remote team members now.

Secure file sharing

If you have a distributed team, each member of that team must be able to access important files from anywhere in the country or beyond. Therefore, you need to have secure file sharing solutions for either cloud storage or remote server storage.

Secure file sharing allows team members to access important information or documents whenever it is necessary, enabling them to complete their objectives or accomplish their work even if they aren’t at a brick-and-mortar office.

You can use a Windows file server as a dedicated storage spot for all of your business’s important files and information. Windows file servers from organizations like Gladinet provide safe and secure access for your business’s employees and clients anywhere around the world, all without having to install or pay for an expensive VPN!

Video conferencing and screen sharing tools

Communication is key to ensure that everyone in a distributed team is working properly and that they check in regularly. Plus, video chat tools and platforms help employees feel more connected. Videoconferencing tools are a must-have, with popular options including Skype and Zoom.

But you may also want to look into screen sharing tools, as these allow team members to collaborate more directly than ever before. Great examples include Join.me and TeamViewer.

man in blue dress shirt smiling beside woman in black and red floral dress

Face-to-face or video messaging isn’t the only type necessary for a remote or distributed team to see success. Text messaging tools are also an absolute necessity, so you should invest in remote communication tools like Slack, Troop Messenger, and more.

Many of these tools have additional functions or bonus features that allow you to share tasks, plan out workloads, and more. Most importantly, it will allow team members to remain in touch throughout the workweek even if they never see each other face-to-face.

Monitoring tools

You may also want to check out monitoring tools, even if you trust your distributed teams. Monitoring tools help you keep an eye on new team members and make sure that they are spending their time wisely while they are on the clock. Good examples of monitoring tools include Toggl and TimeDoctor.

Calendars and management tools

Speaking of project management, you should invest in and require the use of multiple management tools and/or calendars. Management tools allow you to handle and distribute project workloads quickly and easily, as well as track their progress throughout the week.

Calendar tools are a more specific type of management tools and can be used by both you and your employees to excellent effect. A few great examples to check out include Google Calendar, Microsoft To-Do, and Todoist. Bottom line: management and calendar tools are necessary if you want your distributed team to meet its deadlines consistently.

Photo by Good Faces