Let’s Talk Communication Tools

• Zoom keeps everyone face-to-face: Zoom is still the go-to video conferencing app for teams that need reliable video and audio calls. It’s great for scheduled meetings, impromptu check-ins, and even large webinars. You can record sessions, use breakout rooms for smaller discussions, and share your screen for real-time collaboration. Plus, with background noise suppression and cloud storage, it’s one of the most versatile tools out there.
• Slack makes conversations flow: If you’ve ever felt buried in emails, Slack is a breath of fresh air. It’s a messaging app built for teams, offering channels for different topics or projects. You can send direct messages, hop on video or voice calls, and integrate your favorite tools like Google Drive or Trello. It even has a Workflow Builder that helps automate repetitive tasks.
• Microsoft Teams does it all (especially if you’re already using Microsoft 365): Microsoft Teams is a powerhouse if your company already uses the Microsoft suite. It brings chat, video, file sharing, and co-authoring into one place. You can collaborate on documents in real time, manage tasks with Microsoft Planner, and even invite guests outside your organization. It’s secure, scalable, and great for enterprise teams.

Project Management and Collaboration Just Got Easier

• Trello keeps things visual and organized: Trello’s board-and-card setup makes it easy to visualize tasks, move them through different stages, and assign deadlines. You can add checklists, labels, and attachments to each card. With Power-Ups, Trello connects to apps like Slack, Dropbox, and more. It’s a great choice for teams that like a simple, visual workflow.
• Asana helps teams hit their goals: Asana lets you break big projects into small, manageable tasks. You can set due dates, track dependencies, view progress on a timeline, and even automate some workflows. The dashboard gives a bird’s-eye view of how everything’s progressing, which is super helpful for project managers.
• ClickUp combines all your work in one place: ClickUp handles task management, time tracking, goal setting, document creation, and more—all under one roof. You can switch between views (like Kanban, Gantt, or Calendar), assign comments, and even build custom dashboards. If you’re tired of jumping between tools, ClickUp could be your all-in-one solution.

Need to Share Files or Work on Docs Together? We’ve Got You

• Google Workspace makes collaboration seamless: Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) is a must-have for any remote team. With Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive, it’s easy to work together in real time. You can leave comments, suggest edits, and access files from any device. Everything’s saved automatically, and you can check the version history if you ever need to go back.
• Dropbox keeps files safe and accessible: Dropbox is your digital filing cabinet. You can store everything securely, sync across devices, and share files with teammates or clients. Its Smart Sync feature lets you view files without downloading them. Plus, Dropbox Paper lets you create collaborative documents right inside the platform.
• Notion brings it all together: Notion is more than just a note-taking app—it’s a full-blown team workspace. You can build wikis, track projects, store databases, and even manage tasks. It’s totally customizable, so whether you want a simple document or a detailed project tracker, Notion makes it happen.

Stay on Top of Time and Productivity

• Toggl Track makes time tracking simple: Toggl Track is great for teams and freelancers who want a no-fuss way to track time. You can start a timer with one click, assign time to projects, and get detailed reports on how your time is being used. It also integrates with calendars and project tools to keep everything aligned.
• RescueTime helps you work smarter: RescueTime runs quietly in the background and tracks how you spend your time. It helps you figure out what’s eating your productivity and even blocks distracting websites during focus time. You’ll get daily reports, alerts, and trends that help you make the most of your workday.
• Clockify is a budget-friendly time tracker for teams: Clockify is free for unlimited users and projects, which makes it perfect for teams that need basic time tracking without the cost. You can log hours manually or use a timer, track billable hours, and create custom reports. It also includes features like time-off tracking and expense logging.

Keep Your Team’s Data Safe With These Cybersecurity Tools

• NordLayer protects your network: NordLayer (formerly NordVPN Teams) is built for businesses that take data security seriously. It encrypts internet traffic, gives you dedicated IPs, and lets you manage team access with ease. You can also monitor activity and separate networks by department.
• LastPass makes password sharing safe: LastPass securely stores your logins, lets you share passwords without revealing them, manages access, and monitors for weak passwords and breaches.
• 1Password simplifies security without compromising it: 1Password makes it easy to manage credentials while keeping everything locked down. You get features like biometric logins, password strength checks, and alerts for compromised accounts. Teams can organize passwords in shared vaults and limit access to the right people.

Need Remote IT Support? These Tools Have You Covered

• TeamViewer gets you connected fast: TeamViewer lets IT teams remotely access devices to fix issues, install software, or guide users through troubleshooting. It supports all major platforms and includes features like session recording, file transfers, and even wake-on-LAN.
• AnyDesk delivers high performance on any network: AnyDesk is a lightweight remote desktop app that works even on slow connections. It’s fast, responsive, and easy to set up. You can use it without installing anything, and it includes session logging and access permissions for secure usage.
• LogMeIn offers a complete remote support suite: LogMeIn comes with 1TB of cloud storage, file management, multi-monitor support, and even remote printing. It’s ideal for IT teams that need full control and visibility across their systems.

Create a Remote Culture That Sticks

• Gather makes remote work feel human again: Gather turns your remote meetings into interactive experiences. It creates a virtual office where you can walk around, bump into teammates, or join meetings in different rooms. It’s fun, social, and surprisingly effective for building a stronger team vibe.
• Donut builds real connections (right in Slack): Donut pairs up team members for virtual coffee chats or peer learning sessions. It’s especially great for new hires and cross-departmental bonding. It works inside Slack, sends reminders, and keeps the whole team feeling connected.
• Kudos recognizes great work, remotely: Kudos lets team members recognize each other for a job well done. You can tie recognition to company values, send rewards, and track engagement. It helps build a positive culture—even when your team is scattered across the globe.

Wrapping It All Up

Remote work is here to stay, and the right software makes it easier. Whether managing projects, joining calls, or securing data, these tools have you covered. Plus, many offer free versions or trials to find the best fit for your team.

Take the time to build your remote tech stack around your team’s actual needs, and you’ll be setting yourself up for smoother workflows, happier employees, and better results.

Key Takeaway: If you want your remote team to run smoothly, you need software that keeps communication flowing, projects organized, and your data safe—all in one place.

FAQs

What’s the best tool for managing remote employees in one place?

ClickUp is a great all-in-one option for managing tasks, documents, time tracking, and collaboration all in one place.

Are there remote work tools that work well with limited internet?

Yes, AnyDesk is known for its speed and low bandwidth usage, making it ideal for teams with spotty or slow internet.

Can I run a secure remote business without an IT department?

Absolutely. Tools like NordLayer, 1Password, and LastPass make it easy to protect your network and accounts, even without an in-house IT team.

Is there a way to build team relationships remotely?

Yes, apps like Donut and Gather are specifically designed to create those “watercooler moments” in a virtual setting.

Do I need separate tools for communication, tasks, and files?
 Not necessarily. Platforms like Microsoft Teams and ClickUp combine multiple functions into one place, so you can reduce the number of tools you use.