In some companies, all the employees doesn't work from the same workplace.
They may work from a different state or country for the company.
There is a big advantage of being spread out.
The growth of team is not constrained by the cost of office space and local challenges like a hurricane or a power outage don't create problem in our work entirely.
But this also means that we need to be very deliberate about how we work, as we are relying on virtual collaboration.
Today, more and more workplaces are bringing together talented people in flexible and virtual work environments.
If you are a part of it or want to try it, here are 4 strategies for virtual collaboration: Video-Conferencing: Video-conferencing is a great teleconferencing partner, and has created a custom iPad app for our meeting rooms that allows staffers to quickly dial in.
We had surveyed periodically to understand pain points for people inside and outside the office.
Although it is a work in progress and there's always room for improvement, but the structural support is one of the most important factors in pulling off reliable virtual collaboration.
Review your Tool: Good communication always starts with fabulous tools.
Like many other virtual teams, we use GitHub to collaborate on code, Dropbox to store all assets we use, and Google Docs for notes on group thinking and works in progress.
Another important tool is a very good headset.
During videoconferences, this tool makes an incredible difference in call quality and prevents irritating echoes.
You should have elements of a normal office: What are the little office things that a virtual team misses out on? Here we are thinking about how to institute virtual replacements.
For example: we use chat for 1:1 conversations, and Flowdock for team chatter.
This helps to facilitate transparency in our conversations and achieve that serendipity that happens in the office when you overhear two teammates talking about a project and you have something to offer.
A room for everyone: Big talent can come from anywhere.
But we have one rule for remote team members and it is they must have access to a one room of their own with a door.
If employees have this in their home and prefer to work there, it's good.
ON the other hand if they don't, then we must help them to find a convenient co-working space to use.
It is essential because the ability to control your environment and get heads down is very important for development work.
Also, it helps team members to join virtual meetings without distraction.
So, these were the four tips that you can use for virtual collaboration.
Are you using these tips? Do you have any other tip in your mind? Share with us in the comment section.