Remote work has become the new normal due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As more companies embrace remote work, managers need to adjust their management style to ensure that their remote employees remain productive. While remote work has many benefits, it can also be challenging to monitor productivity. In this blog, we will explore some tools and tactics that managers can use to monitor and boost remote work productivity.
1. Communication Tools
Communication is key to effective remote work. Managers need to ensure that they have the right tools to communicate with their remote employees. Some popular communication tools include:
Slack
Slack is a messaging app that allows teams to communicate in real-time. It has features like channels, direct messages, and file sharing, making it easy for teams to collaborate. Slack also integrates with other tools like Asana and Trello, making it easier for teams to work together.
Zoom
Zoom is a video conferencing tool that allows teams to hold virtual meetings. It has features like screen sharing, recording, and virtual backgrounds that make it easy for teams to communicate effectively. Zoom also has a chat feature that allows teams to communicate during meetings.
Google Meet
Google Meet is another video conferencing tool that allows teams to hold virtual meetings. It integrates with other Google tools like Google Calendar and Google Drive, making it easy for teams to collaborate. Google Meet also has a chat feature that allows teams to communicate during meetings.
2. Time Tracking Tools
Time tracking tools help managers monitor how much time their remote employees spend on tasks. They also help employees stay focused and accountable. Some popular time tracking tools include:
Toggl
Toggl is a time tracking tool that allows employees to track the time they spend on tasks. It has features like project tracking and reporting, making it easy for managers to monitor productivity. Toggl also integrates with other tools like Asana and Trello, making it easier for employees to track their time.
Harvest
Harvest is another time tracking tool that allows employees to track the time they spend on tasks. It has features like invoicing and expense tracking, making it easy for managers to manage projects. Harvest also integrates with other tools like Asana and Trello.
RescueTime
RescueTime is a time tracking tool that tracks how much time employees spend on different apps and websites. It provides detailed reports that help employees identify productivity gaps. RescueTime also has a feature that allows employees to set goals and track their progress.
3. Project Management Tools
Project management tools help managers organize and track tasks. They also help employees stay on top of their tasks and deadlines. Some popular project management tools include:
Asana
Asana is a project management tool that allows teams to organize and track tasks. It has features like task assignments, due dates, and project timelines, making it easy for teams to collaborate. Asana also integrates with other tools like Slack and Toggl.
Trello
Trello is another project management tool that allows teams to organize and track tasks. It has features like boards, lists, and cards, making it easy for teams to visualize their workflow. Trello also integrates with other tools like Slack and Toggl.
Basecamp
Basecamp is a project management tool that allows teams to organize and track tasks. It has features like to-do lists, message boards, and file sharing, making it easy for teams to collaborate. Basecamp also has a feature that allows teams to schedule automatic check-ins.
4. Employee Monitoring Tools
Employee monitoring tools help managers track how their remote employees use their time. They also help employees stay focused and accountable. Some popular employee monitoring tools include:
Hubstaff
Hubstaff is an employee monitoring tool that tracks how much time employees spend on tasks. It has features like GPS tracking and activity monitoring, making it easy for managers to monitor productivity. Hubstaff also has a feature that allows employees to track their time offline.
Time Doctor
Time Doctor is another employee monitoring tool that tracks how much time employees spend on tasks. It has features like project tracking and reporting, making it easy for managers to monitor productivity. Time Doctor also has a feature that allows employees to set goals and track their progress.
DeskTime
DeskTime is an employee monitoring tool that tracks how much time employees spend on tasks. It has features like app and website monitoring, making it easy for managers to identify productivity gaps. DeskTime also has a feature that allows employees to track their time offline.
Conclusion
Remote work has become the new normal, and managers need to adjust their management style to ensure that their remote employees remain productive. Communication tools, time tracking tools, project management tools, and employee monitoring tools can help managers monitor and boost remote work productivity. By using these tools and tactics, managers can ensure that their remote employees remain productive and accountable.