Digital Communication Tools During Lockdown
Quarantines and lockdowns have limited face-to-face contact and interactions, making it harder to get in touch with people. For businesses, this is perhaps one of the most significant changes to emerge from the pandemic, as the nature of work involves communication and collaboration. With remote work taking over and becoming the new norm, several adjustments and changes are needed in the workplace.
Just as students must find the best e-learning tools to help them study online, employers must also find the right meeting and conferencing tools to ensure productive work during the lockdown. The challenge is choosing the right tools, which is much easier said than done. Aside from having an easy interface, you also want to think of factors like security, features, and other things.
There is no right or wrong answer when choosing a tool. It depends on what your business needs and the type of collaboration you do. Get to know some of the top tools utilised by businesses during the lockdown and the shift from in-face to virtual events to comply with social distancing requirements.
Video Conferencing and Meeting Tools for Remote Work
Zoom
Zoom is perhaps one of the most popular and familiar names on the list, especially since its popularity spiked during quarantines and lockdowns. You can make calls through any of your devices, whether it be your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Zoom also comes with a recording feature and has a chat function for easy communication. Security and privacy is perhaps the top reason why this tool is the most preferred for many businesses. One drawback is that only a maximum of 100 participants can join a meeting at a time, but this can be lifted if you get the paid software.
Google Meet
Google Meet is another popular communication tool with an easy interface and recording feature. The free version only allows up to 25 people in a video call, but the paid version allows up to 250 people. One of the unique points about this tool is that it can be integrated with other Google functions like your Google Calendar and other software in the G Suite.
GoToMeeting
GoToMeeting may not be as familiar as the first two tools, but it is highly popular among small businesses, with over 18 million users annually. It is known for being compatible with many devices, scheduled meeting features, and providing user-friendly experiences. However, you can only invite up to three attendees and host meetings for up to 40 minutes, so you will need to unlock the advanced feature.
WhatsApp is a popular social media platform used today, but its video calling function is not as well-known. The current cap is at eight users, making it more limited for business purposes. However, the app is easy to use and operate and can be linked to your contact list.
Messenger
Facebook jumped into the world of video conferencing by making an extension of Messenger with its Messenger rooms. You can easily create a room and share it through your News Feed, Groups, or Events, with a maximum of 50 people joining the call at a time. Facebook Messenger Room also allows you to use AR functions and set mood lights or fun backgrounds.
Shift to Virtual Events and Webinars
Due to the need for limited face-to-face contact in the lockdown, businesses must also transition from face-to-face events to virtual events. As such, webinars have become more common during this time. The world of events and communications have changed drastically in the pandemic, and with uncertainty on when in-person events can ensue, there is a high chance that virtual events will become a norm for many businesses.
Prospects for the events in the future show that a mix of in-person and virtual events will likely be the most suitable set-up. However, finding the balance between the two will be challenging as each format comes with advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, it boils down to your objectives and the type of events you are hosting.