Leadership SkillsTeam Building

Tools for virtual Team Building: Platforms That Make It Easy

Top 10 Tools for Building Stronger, More Productive Remote Teams

In today’s world, remote teams need tools that facilitate communication, effectively manage tasks, and maintain high levels of collaboration. These tools not only help teams stay connected but also boost productivity and foster innovation. In this article, we introduce 10 top virtual team-building platforms that, with their unique features, help remote teams achieve their goals in the best possible way. By leveraging these tools, teams can streamline collaboration, divide tasks more efficiently, and have a positive experience working together in a virtual environment. In this article Guide to Team Building Activities for Remote Teams, we suggest key steps to building a strong, cohesive team that thrives in a virtual environment.

10 virtual team building tools

10 essential virtual team-building tools

1.ClickUp: All-in-One Task and Project Management

ClickUp is a robust platform for managing tasks, projects, and team collaboration in one place. It’s perfect for teams looking for flexibility and customization.

Key Features:

  • Centralized Task Management: Create, assign, and track tasks with deadlines and priorities.
  • Customizable Workflows: Switch between List, Board, Calendar, and Gantt views to match your workflow.
  • Time Tracking: Monitor productivity directly within the app.
  • Built-in Collaboration Tools: Use comments, mentions, and chats for seamless communication.
  • Automation and Templates: Automate repetitive tasks and kickstart projects with templates.

Best for Startups, marketing teams, and remote project management.

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2.Zoom: Redefining Virtual Communication

Zoom is the gold standard for video communication, offering an intuitive platform for meetings, webinars, and virtual events.

Key Features:

  • Cross-Platform Accessibility: Seamlessly connect from desktop, mobile, or tablet devices.
  • Interactive Meeting Tools: Leverage breakout rooms, polls, and whiteboards for engaging discussions.
  • Session Recording: Record meetings for future reference or team members who missed them.
  • Crystal-Clear Audio and Video: Ensures professional-quality communication even in large meetings.

Best for Teams needing high-quality virtual meetings, especially in sales, education, and customer service. For hosting high-quality video meetings, Zoom is one of the best options.

3.Happeo: Streamlining Internal Communication

Happeo is a digital workplace hub that simplifies and improves interpersonal communication skills, boosting team collaboration.

Key Features:

  • Unified Information Hub: Consolidate company updates, announcements, and documents in one platform.
  • Seamless Integration: Connect with tools like Google Workspace and Microsoft Office for efficient workflows.
  • Team Collaboration Channels: Create discussion threads and share files to keep teams aligned.

Best for HR departments, management, and companies prioritizing transparency.

4.ProofHub: Centralized Project and Team Management

ProofHub is a versatile project management platform that simplifies workflows and enhances team collaboration.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive Project Management: Plan, track, and execute projects from a single dashboard.
  • Time Tracking and Scheduling: Monitor progress and allocate resources effectively.
  • Collaboration Tools: Use group chats, file sharing, and task discussions for seamless teamwork.
  • Enhanced Transparency: Gain visibility into project progress and team contributions.

Best for: Designers, content creators, and cross-functional teams managing projects.

5.Notion: Versatile Workspace for Teams

Notion combines note-taking, project management, and organizational tools in one customizable platform.

Key Features:

  • Task and Project Management: Structure projects and assign tasks effectively.
  • Flexible Organization: Design workflows tailored to your team’s needs using pages and databases.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Work together through shared spaces, comments, and mentions.
  • Knowledge Repository: Store and organize documents, processes, and resources for easy access.

Best for: Creative teams, researchers, and educational projects.

6.Around Video Meetings Made Creative

Around is an innovative video communication tool that enhances virtual meetings with engaging features.

Key Features:

  • Unique Circular Layout: This keeps participants visually engaged without taking up too much screen space.
  • High-Quality Video and Audio: Delivers a professional and reliable meeting experience.
  • Screen Sharing and Real-Time Chat: Share ideas and collaborate efficiently during calls.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Simple setup and navigation make meetings hassle-free.

Best for: Design and development teams that prioritize creativity in brainstorming sessions.

7.Slack: Streamlined Team Communication

Slack is a widely used communication platform that promotes efficient collaboration within teams.

Key Features:

  • Organized Channels: Create focused spaces for specific projects, departments, or topics.
  • Seamless Integrations: Connect with tools like Google Drive, Trello, and Asana for enhanced workflows.
  • Instant Messaging and File Sharing: Share updates and resources in real-time.
  • Searchable Archives: Easily retrieve past conversations or files when needed.

Best for: IT, marketing, and cross-functional teams needing constant communication.

8.Google Workspace: Collaborative Suite for Remote Teams

Google Workspace offers a collection of tools designed to improve productivity and streamline team workflows.

Key Features:

  • Real-Time Collaboration: Use Google Docs and Sheets to co-edit documents and track changes.
  • Integrated Communication Tools: Stay connected with Gmail, Google Meet, and Chat.
  • Cloud Storage: Access and share files securely through Google Drive.
  • Advanced Scheduling: Google Calendar helps manage meetings and deadlines effortlessly.

Best for Organizations across industries needing an all-in-one collaborative solution.

9.Trello: Visual Task Management

Trello uses a Kanban-style approach to help teams organize, track, and complete tasks effectively.

Key Features:

  • Customizable Boards: Organize projects visually with lists and cards.
  • Task Cards: Add due dates, checklists, attachments, and comments for detailed task management.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Team members can update tasks and leave feedback simultaneously.
  • Automation with Butler: Streamline repetitive tasks with custom workflows.

Best for: Marketing, operations, and IT teams handling task-oriented projects. If you’re looking for a visual tool for project management, Trello is an excellent choice.

10.Asana: Comprehensive Project Management

Asana is a powerful platform designed to help teams organize and execute projects from start to finish.

Key Features:

  • Task and Project Breakdown: Divide work into smaller, manageable pieces for better tracking.
  • Gantt Charts (Timeline View): Visualize task dependencies and deadlines for seamless planning.
  • Advanced Reporting: Gain insights into project progress and identify potential bottlenecks.
  • Real-Time Updates: Collaborate through comments, file sharing, and live status updates.

Best for: Marketing and development teams managing complex, multi-layered projects. If you’re looking for a tool to manage projects, Asana is a great platform where you can work as a team.

virtual team building tools

How to Combine Tools for Greater Productivity

Using a single tool might not always meet all your team’s needs. Combining platforms strategically can optimize workflows and enhance collaboration. Here are some effective combinations:

1.ClickUp + Slack

  • Why it works:

ClickUp excels in task management, while Slack provides instant communication. Together, they ensure seamless updates and efficient task tracking.

  • Example in action:

Notifications from ClickUp appear directly in Slack, keeping the team informed about project progress.

2.Google Workspace + Zoom

  • Why it works:

Google Workspace offers tools for collaboration on documents, while Zoom facilitates live discussions and brainstorming.

  • Example in action:

Edit Google Docs collaboratively during Zoom meetings, enabling real-time feedback and updates.

3.Trello + Notion

  • Why it works:

Trello simplifies task management visually, while Notion organizes ideas, processes, and resources.

  • Example in action:

Plan daily tasks in Trello and use Notion for in-depth documentation and long-term strategy.

4.ProofHub + Around

  • Why it works:

ProofHub centralizes project management, and Around enables dynamic brainstorming sessions via video calls.

  • Example in action:

Define project milestones in ProofHub, then conduct a creative session on Around for innovative solutions.

Future Challenges in Virtual Team Building

As remote work grows, virtual team-building tools must evolve to address emerging challenges:

1.Managing Global Teams with Time Zone Differences:

Coordinating meetings across time zones is difficult. Future tools will need smart scheduling features, like automatic time zone adjustments, to sync team calendars efficiently.

2.Communication Barriers in Diverse Teams:

Cultural and language differences can cause misunderstandings. Tools integrating real-time translation and cultural adaptation will foster inclusivity and improve communication.

3.Increasing Security Needs:

As digital collaboration rises, safeguarding data is crucial. Advanced encryption and privacy compliance must be integral to future team-building platforms.

Tailored Solutions for Unique Challenges

1.Extreme Time Zone Differences:

  • Use tools like Clockwise to optimize meeting times. Pair it with Google Calendar for easy scheduling across time zones.

2.Culturally Diverse Teams:

  • Employ tools like Google Translate for seamless translation of messages. Utilize Slack channels for culture-specific discussions to promote inclusivity.

3.Team Needing High Interaction:

  • Combine platforms like Around for interactive video meetings with tools like Trello for efficient task management.

Conclusion: Which Tool is Best for Your Team?

The best tool depends on your team’s unique needs. Here’s a quick summary:

  • ClickUp: Perfect for startups and marketing teams managing detailed projects.
  • Zoom: Ideal for sales, education, and real-time communication.
  • Happeo: Great for HR and internal communication.
  • ProofHub: Best for creative teams and content creators.
  • Notion: Excellent for research and process documentation.
  • Around: Tailored for brainstorming and development teams.
  • Slack: Versatile for IT and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Google Workspace: Suitable for any team requiring collaborative workflows.
  • Trello: Perfect for task management in various fields.
  • Asana: Best for complex projects with multiple stakeholders.

FAQ

What’s the biggest challenge your remote team faces, and which of these tools do you think could solve it?

Coordinating across time zones is tough for remote teams. Tools like Zoom and Clockwise help manage meetings and time zones efficiently. They make scheduling easier and improve team collaboration.
“Time zone coordination has always been tough for our team. Zoom and Clockwise have been a game changer.”

Have you ever combined multiple tools to enhance productivity? If yes, what worked best for your team?

Combining tools like Trello and Slack helps improve task management and communication. Trello organizes tasks visually, while Slack provides instant updates. This combination boosts productivity.
“We paired Trello with Slack to keep tasks organized and ensure real-time updates—great combination!”

Are there any virtual team-building tools not mentioned here that you believe deserve recognition?

Miro is another tool that helps with creative brainstorming and visual collaboration. It allows teams to share ideas and work together in real time. It’s particularly useful for design teams.
“Miro has been great for brainstorming and visual collaboration in our creative team.”

Samira Naziri

Howdy! I'm Samira, an SEO specialist. I create websites that help people succeed. My passion is optimizing content for better visibility and helping businesses grow. When I'm not working, I like to visit new places, play the harmonica, and learn new things about digital marketing.

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