If your team has 10 or more members, a good communication tool is a must. Clear communication keeps everything running smoothly, no matter how your team works. Whether you’re remote or in-office, setting up an online communication tool is a no-brainer. Microsoft Teams is a popular option, but there are plenty of other platforms that might be an even better fit for your team.
Exploring Other Communication Tools
Finding the right platform can enhance collaboration and boost productivity. Here are some notable options:
Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is an open-source platform that gives you full control over your data. It’s ideal for teams that prioritize data security. You can customize it extensively and integrate it with various tools. However, setting it up can be a bit complex, and some users have reported occasional issues with mobile notifications. Pricing starts at $4 per user per month, with a free plan available.
Pros:
- Strong data protection, keeping your conversations safe and secure.
- Omnichannel service, helping your customer support efforts.
- Unlimited push notifications, enhancing instant communication.
Cons:
- Limited free users.
- Complex setup process.
- Unreliable mobile app notifications.
Slack
Slack is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive integrations. It allows you to create channels for different projects, making team communication organized. Features like real-time messaging, file sharing, and searchable history enhance collaboration. On the downside, the free plan has limitations on message history and integrations. Paid plans start at $7.25 per user per month.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Extensive integrations with various apps.
- Organized communication through channels.
Cons:
- Limitations on message history in the free plan.
- Can become costly for larger teams.
Pumble
Pumble is a free alternative that supports unlimited users. It’s accessible via browsers or as a mobile app, facilitating both internal and external communication. Features like threaded messages help keep conversations organized. However, it lacks advanced project management features and built-in video calling. The Pro plan starts at $1.99 per user per month.
Pros:
- Free plan supports unlimited users.
- Threaded messages for organized conversations.
- Accessible via browsers and mobile apps.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced project management features.
- No built-in video calling.
Google Chat
Integrated with Google Workspace, Google Chat offers seamless collaboration with other Google services. It supports direct messaging and group conversations through “Spaces.” While it’s user-friendly, especially for those already using Google products, it has limited customization options compared to other platforms. Pricing starts at $6 per user per month as part of Google Workspace.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Google services.
- User-friendly interface.
- Supports direct messaging and group conversations.
Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Requires a Google Workspace subscription.
Mattermost
Mattermost is a self-hosted platform designed for organizations with strict security requirements. It offers features like file sharing, search functionality, and integrations. While it provides greater control over data, it requires technical expertise to set up and maintain. Pricing details are available upon contacting their sales team.
Pros:
- High security standards.
- Easy to use with a clean UI.
- Good functionality.
Cons:
- Search for chats and persons can be difficult.
- No audio sending feature.
Workplace from Facebook
Workplace offers a familiar interface with features like news feeds, groups, and live video. It’s designed to foster collaboration and company-wide communication. However, some users may have concerns about data privacy due to its association with Facebook. Pricing starts at $4 per user per month.
Pros:
- Easy to use, especially for teams familiar with Facebook.
- Separate professional accounts ensure privacy.
- Rich media options like reactions, GIFs, and live broadcasts.
Cons:
- Limited communication with people outside your organization.
- Data privacy concerns due to Facebook’s history with security issues.
- May require additional tools for collaborating with external partners.
Cisco WebEx
Cisco WebEx integrates messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing. It offers features like whiteboarding and integrates with various productivity tools. While it provides strong security features, the interface can be less intuitive for new users. Paid plans start at $13.50 per host per month.
Pros:
- Comprehensive communication tools including messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing.
- Strong security features with end-to-end encryption.
- Integration with various productivity tools.
Cons:
- Interface can be less intuitive for new users.
- Higher pricing compared to some alternatives.
Flock
Flock is a communication platform that offers messaging, video calls, and productivity tools. It allows you to create channels for focused discussions and integrates with over 60 third-party applications. Some users may find the learning curve steep due to its extensive features. Pricing starts at $4.50 per user per month, with a free plan available.
Pros:
- Turn messages into to-do lists, check off completed tasks, and assign tasks to users.
- Set due dates for tasks.
- File sharing of up to 100MB within the chat.
Cons:
- Fewer integrations than Slack.
- Best suited for teams that communicate outside of their organization.
Twist
Twist is designed for teams that prefer structured and organized communication. It uses threads to keep discussions focused and easy to follow. While it promotes a distraction-free environment, it lacks built-in video and voice call features. Pricing starts at $6 per user per month, with a free plan available.
Pros:
- Threads for organized communication.
- Guest access for external collaboration.
- Public-by-default channels for radical transparency.
Cons:
- Lacks video and voice call features.
- Limited message history in the free plan.
Chanty
Chanty offers a simple and intuitive design, making it easy for teams to adopt. It provides unlimited messaging, voice calls, and integrations with various apps. However, it lacks enterprise features that larger organizations might require. Pricing starts at $3 per user per month, with a free plan available for teams up to 10 members.
Pros:
- Unlimited messaging and voice calls.
- Integrations with various apps.
- Simple and intuitive design.
Cons:
- Lacks enterprise features for larger organizations.
- Limited to teams of up to 10 members in the free plan.
Microsoft Teams Works, But Is It the Best for You?
Microsoft Teams has long been the go-to choice for workplace communication—after all, it’s Microsoft. But if you’re paying for a tool, you might as well choose one that truly fits your team’s needs. Look for features like integration capabilities and scalability, as these vary across platforms. Exploring other options can help you find a solution that boosts collaboration and productivity for your team.