Roughly nine in ten Americans say that a major interruption in their internet or cellphone service during the coronavirus outbreak would be a major problem for their daily life. But thanks to endless digital resources, we’ve all been able to continue distance learning, virtual communication, and business operations.
Whether you’re a business owner, educator, student, digital marketer, or just looking for ways to stay connected, we put together some of the best digital tools to help you communicate, collaborate and be productive—many of which we rely on regularly.
For Communication + Collaboration
Microsoft Teams: Designed as a hub for meetings, chats, and collaboration, Microsoft Teams integrates the people, content, and tools your team needs to be successful. At clevermethod, we rely on this on a daily basis—whether it’s to access the latest documents, host a morning meeting, or collaborate on an idea.
Google Meet: Day-over-day growth of Google’s enterprise videoconferencing tool has exceeded 60 percent, with daily usage now 25 times higher than it was in January. The tool not only enables teams to collaborate but offers remote communication for businesses that need to continue operating. Health and Human Services (HHS) even recently altered HIPAA rules, allowing healthcare providers to provide care to patients remotely during COVID-19.
Hootsuite: At a time where it’s essential for businesses to manage crisis communications, Hootsuite makes it easy to continue social listening, schedule posts, and respond to customers. Through July 1, it’s also offering free access to its professional product for nonprofits and small businesses affected by the COVID-19 crisis.
For Learning + Education
Zoom: As one of the leading enterprise video communications platforms, Zoom has been a critical resource for education as we continue to adapt to distance learning. Recently, Zoom has temporarily removed the 40-minute meeting limit on its free accounts for students and teachers at K-12 schools across the country. Groups of friends and families have also been able to benefit from this through video conferencing and virtual togetherness.
Google for Education: Google’s G Suite for Education is designed to enable educators and students to learn and innovate collaboratively. Currently, it’s offering tips, tools, and training, with free or expanded access for those who qualify.
Adobe: For those needing tools aimed at creative, marketing and document management, Adobe is offering a variety of programs that will be available during COVID-19. Students and teachers can request free home access to the Creative Cloud Suite through the end of May. Adobe Connect, a web-conferencing service, is also free for schools and businesses until July 1.
For Productivity + Project Management
InVision: When it comes to gathering feedback and moving projects forward, InVision is one of the most effective tools available. The digital product design platform allows creative teams to design, experiment, test and optimize together from anywhere. At clevermethod, tools like this help us seamlessly gather ideas, present designs, and offer instant feedback—especially at a time where we aren’t able to meet and collaborate in an office or conference room.
Asana: For organizations working remotely, it’s essential to be able to keep track of daily tasks, projects and goals. For us, Asana has helped manage workflows, map out deadlines and keep track of progress. The company is also currently offering a free one-year subscription to its business platform for nonprofit organizations on the front lines of research and testing of COVID-19.
What are some of the best tools you’ve tapped into for being productive, working efficiently and communicating with friends and family? If you’re interested in learning how we can help you build and optimize your digital presence at a time where staying connected is more important than ever before, we’re here to help. Contact us or reach out on any of our social media platforms.