It appears that lack of communication routinely is one of the biggest problems in projects. I was wondering what tools some of you are using to improve communication and collaboration, especially when dealing with virtual teams.
My company has recently implemented collaboration tools including a comprehensive website for document sharing and storage, sharing a common calendar, and message boards. We are using PlaceWare for web-based presentations and have installed video conferencing equipment in all our offices. I am looking to see what more we can do to help better the communication cycles. Any advise or suggestions are very welcomed. Saving Changes...
I'm assuming your looking for advise on collaboration tools. But I'll take the chance to offer up an observation on communication in general. Don't let a lack of tools, proximity, or other issues stop communication. As a PM it's my task to close the communication gaps on the projects I'm working on.
Three things I follow: 1. Don't assume communication is happening. 2. Don't underestimate the lack of desire / fear most people have with picking up a phone to make an outgoing phone call. 3. Assume that communication problems are indications of other problems. I've often found that poor communication around a topic or part of the project ussually guides me to areas of the project that are in trouble.
One of the tools we just started testing is groove. You can download a functional trial version that has limited capability. I believe their web site is groove.com Saving Changes...
Michael BrownProject Manager| JPMorganChaseDeerfield, Il, United States
Two places to visit: www.collaborate.com www.groupjazz.com
We found that traditional project management systems use a consolidation approach i.e. by the time information is collected from different sites across the globe, the information is out of data. Hydra, from The Program Management Group addresses this and other issues faced with multi project communication. For more information look at http://www.pm-group.co.uk Saving Changes...
"If they have moving sidewalks in the future, when you get on them, I think you should have to assume sort of a walking shape so as not to frighten the dogs."
