5 Software Tools Remote Companies Should Employ

Running a remote company has numerous benefits and can be what pushes your company to the top. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. For example, staying connected with your team and keeping track of projects can be tricky when everyone is in different locations.

That’s where the right software tools come in. Using the right tools for communication, collaboration, and project management is crucial. It can make all the difference in how your business runs. These help you stay organized, boost productivity, and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Why the right software matters

Having the right software isn’t just a convenience. In a remote-first setting, the right tools replace offices, managers, and other aspects that make the company run. You should approach the software with equal dedication and consideration.

With remote teams, you need solid tools to handle all your communication and project needs. These tools allow you to streamline processes and keep projects moving forward smoothly.

The right tools also help with collaboration, maintain a positive company culture, and ensure tasks get completed on time. Software designed for remote work allows your team to work more effectively. It also reduces the friction caused by poor organization or lack of communication.

Five types of software tools for remote companies

When running a remote company, there are five main types of software you’ll want to consider. Each plays an important role in how your team communicates and completes tasks.

1. Communication tools

Strong communication is the foundation of any remote team. Without the right communication tools, things can easily slip through the cracks.

Tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams allow your team to chat in real-time. Both allow you to create channels for different topics and send quick updates to keep everyone informed.

Slack is a popular choice because it’s simple to use and allows for integration with other apps. Microsoft Teams is another solid option, especially if your company already uses Office 365. Both tools offer video calls and file-sharing options, making them versatile.

2. Collaboration tools

Collaboration tools make it easy for your team to work together on tasks, even miles apart. These tools let your team share documents, brainstorm, and edit files in real time, so everyone stays on the same page.

Google Workspace is a great choice because it offers cloud-based document editing and sharing. You can collaborate on docs, spreadsheets, and presentations. Another option is Notion. It combines note-taking, task management, and collaboration into one tool.

3. Project management tools

Keeping track of projects is critical in any business, and it’s even more important for remote companies. Project management tools help you assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress so nothing falls behind.

Trello is a popular project management tool with a simple interface that organizes tasks using boards and cards. If you need more features, Asana is another great option. It offers timelines, task dependencies, and reporting tools to help manage complex projects.

4. Video conferencing tools

Face-to-face communication, even virtually, is important to keep your team connected and engaged. Video conferencing tools make it easy to hold meetings, catch up with your team, or host webinars.

Zoom has become the go-to tool for video conferencing. It offers high-quality video, breakout rooms, and webinars. Another option is Google Meet, which integrates well with Google Workspace. It makes it easy to join meetings right from your calendar.

5. Time-tracking tools

Time-tracking software ensures that tasks are being completed on time. It will also make sure your resources are being used efficiently. It’s particularly helpful if you need to monitor productivity or bill clients for time spent on tasks.

Toggl is a simple, user-friendly time tracker that integrates with many project management tools. Harvest is another option. It offers more in-depth reporting and invoicing features. These make it perfect for businesses needing to track billable hours.

How to choose the right software for your business

Selecting the best software for your remote company is crucial to keeping your team productive and organized. With many options on the market, making the right choice requires careful consideration. Here’s a breakdown of the factors you should consider when choosing software.

Ease of use

The last thing you want is to implement software that frustrates your team or takes too long to learn. Ease of use is key. The software you choose should have a simple and intuitive interface. You want your employees to start using it quickly without needing extensive training.

Complicated tools can lead to confusion, slow your processes, and ultimately hurt productivity. Take time to explore the user interface and make sure the software feels straightforward. If possible, have a few team members try it to see if they can easily get the hang of it.

Cost

Budget is always a factor when deciding on software. Look at both the initial cost and any ongoing subscription fees. Some tools offer free versions with limited features. These may be enough for smaller teams, while others may offer different pricing plans depending on your company’s size.

Consider whether the software provides good value for the money and if the features included are worth the cost. Keep in mind that some tools offer discounts for annual subscriptions, which can also help you manage expenses.

Relevant features

It’s easy to get distracted by flashy features that sound great but aren’t necessary for your business. Focus on what your team really needs. Does the software help you communicate better? Does it streamline project management?

Make a list of must-have features that solve your team’s specific problems. For example, if your team needs a tool to integrate with other software you’re already using, check for that functionality. Avoid tools that come with too many unnecessary features, as they can overwhelm users and slow down your processes.

Team familiarity

Before choosing new software, check if your team is already familiar with it. If they’ve used it in previous jobs, the learning curve will be much smaller, and they can start working with it right away.

Introducing tools that are new to everyone will require time to train employees, which can delay implementation. However, if the software is vastly superior to what your team currently uses, the learning time might still be worth it. Consider holding a brief team survey or discussion to find out what tools they’re comfortable with.

Reviews and free trials

Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the software you’re considering. Look for reviews that focus on the specific features you need, and pay attention to how well the software performs over time. Some reviews may mention bugs, glitches, or limitations that could be deal-breakers.

Additionally, take advantage of free trials whenever possible. A free trial allows you to test the software in real-world scenarios, see how well it fits your workflow, and determine if it’s worth the investment. During the trial period, check if the software boosts your team’s productivity and if any issues arise.

The right software is crucial

Finding the right software tools for your remote company is essential. It is the key to staying organized, productive, and connected. The right mix of communication, collaboration, and project management tools can help you run your business smoothly, no matter where your team is located.

However, it’s important to remember that finding the perfect software solution may take time. Test different tools, ask your team for feedback, and keep an eye on how well the software is working for your business. Evaluating its impact on productivity and communication will help you make the right choice in the long run.

FAQs

What software is used for remote work?

Remote work typically relies on communication tools like Slack, project management tools such as Trello, and video conferencing platforms like Zoom. The company may use additional tools for collaboration and time tracking.

What do companies use for remote work?

Companies use a mix of software to support remote work. It includes communication tools, project management platforms, and video conferencing software. These help employees stay in touch, collaborate on tasks, and track progress.

What technology is needed for remote working?

For remote working, you’ll need reliable internet access and devices like a laptop or desktop computer. Essential technology also includes communication, collaboration, and project management software to help teams stay organized and productive. Depending on the business, other tools like time-tracking software may also be necessary.