When working with distributed teams, what is a recommended practice?

Utilizing a collaboration platform like Slack is a recommended practice when working with distributed teams because it facilitates real-time communication and collaboration, bridging geographical gaps. Such platforms are designed to create a centralized space for team interaction, making it easy for members to share updates, documents, and feedback quickly.

This approach fosters a more inclusive environment where all team members can engage actively, contributing to a shared sense of purpose and community, which is especially vital in a remote setting. Unlike only relying on emails, which can lead to delayed responses and fragmented communication, collaboration tools enhance transparency and responsiveness.

Daily video calls, while valuable for building rapport, may not always be feasible or necessary for every team, especially if team members are in different time zones. Limiting interaction to only team leads can disconnect team members and undermine the team dynamic by restricting open communication. Thus, leveraging a collaboration platform supports continuous interaction and ensures that all voices are heard, improving team cohesion and productivity.