Working During the Coronavirus Outbreak: 7 Tools SMEs can Use
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has shifted most businesses to work from home or telecommuting. The pandemic has created an environment where businesses, regardless of size, rely greatly on the internet and other tools that will help them continue their processes. Here are the tools you can use to continue your business processes and communications:
Related: Tips to Work From Home Effectively Amid the Coronavirus Outbreak
Communication Software
Maintaining reliable communication lines is at the center of remote work collaboration. Remote communication tools will help you maintain close coordination with your team as everyone adjusts to telecommuting.
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Skype
Skype is one of the best-known telecommunication software. It allows instant messaging, calls (voice and video), file -sharing, and screen sharing which can be used for detailed instructions and presentations. Skype for Business is the enterprise version of the software that provides software provides businesses with increased security and integration with other Microsoft products such as Exchange, Office, and Outlook. -
Zoom
Zoom is a video-conferencing software that specializes in providing solutions for remote meetings and presentations. Free access provides users with an unlimited number of meetings, HD video and voice calls, and end-to-end encryption. However, all free conferences are limited to 40 minutes. You can visit this for more information on Zoom features and pricing. -
Google Hangouts
Hangouts is Google’s telecommunications solution. The free version, which can be accessed by creating a Google account, allows you to send instant messages, images, and maps, make voice and video calls, and create group chats (group video is limited to groups with 10 users). Meanwhile, Hangouts Meet is the enterprise solution that comes with GSuite. It integrates the free features of Hangouts with your GSuite account and allows you to increase the number of video call participants to 100, smart screen sharing, dial-in from phones, and add external participants. Additional features are available depending on your GSuite subscription.
Project Collaboration Software
Project collaboration software allows you to assign and manage projects, report on the status of each task, and share the necessary files. These tools help you keep organized while working tasks remotely.
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Asana
Asana is a team collaboration tool that allows you to create tasks, assign them to your team members, set deadlines, include comments and share files. The free access allows you to integrate with other software such as Google Drive, Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud and other tools you can find in this list. Premium accounts get access to the timeline view, advanced search and reporting, and increased support from Asana. -
Slack
Slack is another collaboration tool that enables you to work with your team remotely. Same with Asana, Slack’s free access allows you to integrate with apps such as GSuite and Microsoft Office. The free account also enables you to do one-on-one calls. Meanwhile, paid access will give you group calls, custom groups, round-the-clock support, and collaboration with individuals or teams outside your organization.
Accounting and Bookkeeping
Cloud accounting and bookkeeping tools help you get a hold of your finances, helping you make decisions and manage resources during this crisis.
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QuickBooks Online (starts at $12.00/mo)
QuickBooks Online is the cloud-based version of QuickBooks Desktop. It allows businesses to do invoicing, payment handling, expense tracking, compliance calculations, and payroll. You can also use a number of add-ons to further increase the tasks that you can carry-out in QuickBooks and/or integrate with other software that you use. -
Xero (starts at $9.00/mo)
Xero is a fast-growing cloud bookkeeping and accounting software that provide SMEs with much-needed functions to manage their finances seamlessly. This includes online invoicing, inventory tracking, bank reconciliation, financial reporting, payroll, and more. Similar to QuickBooks, the plethora of add-ons can also help you do more with Xero.
Working at home during the coronavirus pandemic has challenged businesses to adapt to more tools to ensure the continuation of their businesses. With productivity tools like those mentioned above, working from home can bridge teams and ensure unhampered collaboration in your organization.
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