As technology continues to transform B2B and B2C communication channels and collaboration tools, it can be easy to get lost in the excitement and end up with ineffective results. That’s why it’s so important to know what the cold, hard facts are surrounding digital transformation.

According to data provided by the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), 42% of worldwide CEOs find that regular communication helps build and maintain employee trust within businesses. Following that is the need for transparency and honesty at 35%. The ability to gather feedback and listen to employee needs ranks third place at 22%. 

A business’ reputation can also be maintained through effective communication. Research by Weber Shandwick found that 58% of respondents saw the importance of a business’ ability to talk about and fulfill its mission, values, and vision. Also at 58% is how a business responds to and addresses issues and crises. Closely following behind are public communications and employee communications at 57% and 56% respectively. 

Given this data, businesses should look out for excellent communication capabilities when comparing collaboration tools. While there are numerous options on the market, deciding on the appropriate tools for one’s business can be a challenge. 

That’s why we have narrowed down some key elements that businesses should look for when pushing for effective digital transformation. 

Cloud-based tools 

Cloud-based tools give employees and business executives access to the most recent version of information. This technology also allows for real-time changes, saving valuable time. Sending countless emails back and forth to edit documents is outdated. Rather, using a cloud-based tool like Google Drive takes communication and collaboration to the next level. Edits to documents can be made in real-time and the history of changes are automatically noted, allowing for transparency and accountability. 

DropBox is another example of a reliable cloud-based tool. Like Google Drive, its files can be synced across multiple devices and the platform can be used to store business assets within different folders.  

Project management tools

Effective project management tools drive employee workflow and support business initiatives through the creation of tasks and defining the stakeholders. These tools not only allow priorities to be set, but can let project team members share important assets and information with each other. 

Hive is a useful project management tool that lets users assign tasks to the appropriate team members, track progress, and move those tasks to various stages. The platform also helps employees manage their own workflows better through the creation of due dates. 

Trello is another application that helps businesses keep track of their projects. Like Hive, it allows users to create lists within each project. These lists can be checked off upon each stage of completion. Boards can be created in Trello to showcase overall stages of tasks, providing users with a convenient overview.

Video conferencing tools

Making connections with potential leads or having meetings with project team members can be done using face-to-face conversation software. These tools help with employee communication and project visualization via screen sharing. 

UberConference is an example of this. It can be used to make business meetings more personal, ensure that all participants are on the same page via its screen sharing capabilities, as well as provide a transcription with its voice technology. 

Zoom is another video conference tool that allows users to easily give their input during important meetings. The application also allows for cross-platform messaging, which gives users more flexibility. In addition, Zoom has a file-sharing feature, allowing businesses to be up-to-date with the latest assets. 

Navigating the virtual landscape does not have to be difficult. With the Find Your Audience team, businesses can streamline their workflow processes, improve their B2C and B2B relationships, and ultimately find the best collaboration and communication tools to suit their needs. 

Ready to get started or have more questions? Give the team a call at 647-479-0688. Find Your Audience may also be reached at hi@findyouraudience.online.