At Matcha Design we liked working remotely, even before the Covid-19 pandemic. It allows us to collaborate quickly and efficiently with our staff, local clients and those clients not so close (Canada, for example). Our computers, tablets, and phones allow us to harness the power of online tools to keep resources and projects moving across the miles!
Check out some of our favorite FREE tools that help keep Matcha Design moving:
File Storage and Sharing
Dropbox
What is it?
Dropbox is a free service that lets you bring your photos, docs, and videos anywhere and share them easily. It allows users to create a special folder on each of their computers, which Dropbox then synchronizes so that it appears to be the same folder (with the same contents) regardless of which computer is used to view it.
Why we like it…
We use Dropbox as a kind of a mini server to store specific project notes, presentations, and marketing documents. It comes in handy when we are writing press releases and need to work with multiple team members during the review process–all without sending a single email! The Dropbox folder can sync even if you pull it up on your smartphone through the app.
Google Drive
What is it?
In Google Drive you can access Docs, Sheets, and Slides to create different kinds of online documents, work on them in real time with other people, and store them in your Google Drive online — all for free. You can access the documents, spreadsheets, and presentations you create from any computer.
Why we like it…
We use our Google Drive to do so many things. Our team works on both Mac and PC, so Google Drive is an easy way to keep global documents without worrying about compatibility. Also, the Google Calendar option allows us to keep track of key client dates, with reminders to help us stay informed. Plus, the mobile app provides on-the-go document editing and review.
Video Conferencing and Chat
Zoom
What is it?
Zoom took the videoconferencing world by storm during the Covid-19 pandemic when many businesses and schools realized that it is an easy alternative to conferencing software like Skype.
Why we like it…
Sometimes face-to-face communication is needed and Zoom is our go-to tool to make it happen. We use Zoom to chat between team members, video conference with clients, and share files quickly. These features really help our team members to plow through daily projects and communicate while in different areas of the office. Additionally, we like to use the screen share feature during website training and project planning with clients. Zoom is a fantastic tool for people who don’t want to force their clients to make an entirely new account just to do a bit of videoconferencing.
Google Hangout
What is it…
Google Hangout is the video feature of Google+ (Google Inc’s social networking service). It lets you video call up to nine people while providing the ability to swap photos, instant messages, share screens, watch youtube videos, and collaborate on Google Drive items with those in the Hangout. You can also access additional apps to enhance the video experience.
Why we like it…
We usually use Zoom for our video conferencing needs, but Google Hangout is another option for those people who love Google’s services. All you need is a Google account to start, and you can invite multiple people to the “hangout” completely free. This is especially a good option if you plan to use Google Drive and Google Calendar to manage your meeting documents because you can view these apps easily during a Hangout.
Do you use these or other online tools to keep business going? If so, let us know how you like to utilize them in the comments area below!
