Are you using the best management tools to communicate?

All too often, we stick with tried and true methods as we track projects and communicate with our clients. However, a number of alternatives are now being used – all with increased efficiency and effectiveness, depending on what you’re trying to achieve and with whom you need to communicate. Each of these new tools offers a different way of managing information. As such, an evaluation of each is always helpful. Here are the top five management programs that have now moved into our day-to-day lives at THO.

• Basecamp: A web-based project management tool, Basecamp organizes projects in addition to internal communications and can be used by a wide variety of users.
  Bottom line: It’s easy to use and can help cut down on email clutter.
• Slack: Designed to make team communication simpler, Slack organizes communications into specific groups and channels so the right people are finding the right communications. It also provides file sharing capabilities and access to all kinds of team information, if organized correctly.
  Bottom line: Much like Basecamp, this platform can streamline communication among team members.
• Google Docs: A simple and free way to create web-based documents that can be shared and used by a variety of people, no matter where they are located.
  Bottom line: This tool is easily accessible and a no-brainer for even the least tech-savvy.
• Asana: Another program designed for team collaboration, Asana allows every member to plan, track and collaborate easily. It offers team pages, dashboards in addition to attachments for quick file sharing.
  Bottom line: With solid calendar functions, this app helps teams keep long-term deadlines in mind.
• Smartsheet: A web-based application, this can be used to assign tasks, track project process, manage calendars and share documents. Once again, this program is also easy to use.
  Bottom line: With Smartsheet, you’ll never miss a deadline again.

We all know managing information isn’t easy, but staying on top of the newest methods – as well as shifting to better, stronger ways to communicate is one way to cut down on the email clutter and actually move the ball forward. If you haven’t heard of some of these, check them out. You’ll set yourself up for a much more productive 2018.