24 Best Collaboration Tools For Business Reviewed for 2024
10 Best Collaboration Tools For Business Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
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Choosing the right collaboration tools for your business is tough with so many options out there. You want to improve communication and teamwork, but need to figure out which tool fits best. In this post, I’ll help you find the best options, drawing from my years of experience managing digital projects and using various collaboration tools for business.
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Best Collaboration Tools for Business Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Figma | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Airtable | From $20/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Evernote | From $165.83/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Trello | From $5/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
| Flock | From $4.50/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| WebEx | From $12/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Box | From $16/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Coda | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| TitanFile | From $16/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ClickUp | From $7/user/month | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose Collaboration Tools For Business
As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Understand Your Business Needs: Before diving into collaboration tool options, it's crucial to identify the specific needs of your business. Are you looking to improve communication, streamline project management, or enhance file sharing? For instance, a marketing team might need tools that support brainstorming and creative collaboration, while a software development team might prioritize project management and code sharing capabilities. Understanding these needs will help you narrow down your options and choose a tool that aligns with your business objectives.
- Ease of Use: The adoption of any new tool depends significantly on its ease of use. If a tool is too complex, employees might resist using it, leading to poor adoption rates. Look for tools with intuitive interfaces and straightforward functionalities. For example, tools like Slack and Trello are known for their user-friendly interfaces, which can help ensure that your team quickly adapts to the new system without extensive training.
- Integration Capabilities: The collaboration tool you choose should integrate with the other software and tools your team already uses. This could include email platforms, project management software, or CRM systems. For instance, Slack integrates with over 2,600 popular tools, allowing teams to connect their existing workflows and avoid the hassle of switching between multiple platforms.
- Security Features: With the increasing amount of sensitive data being shared and stored online, security is a paramount concern. Ensure that the collaboration tool you choose has robust security features, such as data encryption, user authentication, and access controls. For example, Smartsheet emphasizes its trust and security features, making it a reliable choice for businesses that handle sensitive information.
- Scalability: As your business grows, your collaboration needs will evolve. Choose a tool that can scale with your business, accommodating more users and additional functionalities as needed. Tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom offer scalable solutions that can grow with your business, ensuring that you won't need to switch tools as your team expands.
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ClickUp
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7 -
Wrike
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Hub Planner
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2
Best Collaboration Tools For Business Reviews
Here’s an in-depth analysis and overview of various collaboration tools for businesses. This will walk through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases.
Figma is a collaborative interface design tool that enables design and development teams to work together on building products. Its robust features allow real-time collaboration, prototyping, and design systems management.
Why I Picked Figma: I chose Figma for this list because it stands out as a comprehensive tool that integrates design and prototyping in one platform. Its real-time collaboration capabilities make it different from other tools. Figma is best because it allows multiple team members to work simultaneously on the same design file, ensuring seamless communication and efficient workflow.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include real-time collaboration, design and prototyping in one place, and design systems management. Figma also offers a digital whiteboard for brainstorming and translating designs into code, making it a versatile tool for various design needs.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Trello, Dropbox, Google Drive, Asana, Zeplin, Notion, and GitHub.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integrations
- Comprehensive design tools
- Real-time collaboration
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve
- Limited offline capabilities
Airtable is a platform that allows teams to create custom business apps without coding. Its versatile features enable users to build tailored applications to meet specific business needs.
Why I Picked Airtable: I chose Airtable for this list because it stands out as a highly flexible and user-friendly platform for creating custom business applications. Unlike other tools, Airtable combines the simplicity of a spreadsheet with the power of a database, making it accessible for users with varying technical skills. It is best because it allows teams to build and modify apps without needing to write code, which lowers the barrier to entry for app development.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include AI integration for automating workflows, a connected data system to centralize information, and a governance and scale framework to manage security and permissions. Additionally, Airtable offers an interface designer for creating custom interfaces and various data visualization options.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Salesforce, Jira, Zendesk, Microsoft Teams, Dropbox, GitHub, Asana, and Trello.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integrations
- Versatile app-building
- No coding required
Cons:
- Limited offline access
- Higher cost
Evernote is a versatile note-taking app that allows users to capture and organize their ideas, tasks, and schedules in one place. It offers advanced search capabilities, syncs across all devices, and enables effortless collaboration on projects.
Why I Picked Evernote: I chose Evernote for its comprehensive note-taking and organizational capabilities, which make it stand out from other collaboration tools. Its ability to integrate notes, tasks, and schedules in one place is useful for businesses. Evernote is best because it offers powerful search features, document scanning, and real-time collaboration.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include advanced search capabilities, document scanning, and real-time editing. Evernote allows users to capture various types of information, including text, images, audio, and PDFs and syncs this data across all devices.
Integrations include Google Drive, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Salesforce, Zapier, Trello, Google Calendar, Microsoft OneNote, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-device sync
- Real-time collaboration
- Advanced search capabilities
Cons:
- Can be complex for new users
- Occasional sync issues
Trello is a project management tool that enables teams to collaborate and manage projects from anywhere. It provides an intuitive board, list, and card system, offering a clear visual overview of tasks and progress.
Why I Picked Trello: I chose Trello for its simplicity and flexibility in visual project management. Trello stands out with its user-friendly interface that allows teams to organize tasks visually, making it easy to track progress and manage workflows. Its visual approach to project management is unmatched, making it the best tool for teams that thrive on visual organization.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include customizable kanban boards, lists, and cards that help teams organize tasks and projects visually. Trello also offers automation with Butler, templates for various use cases, and Power-Ups to enhance functionality.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, Evernote, Salesforce, Jira, GitHub, Asana, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Visual task management
- Highly customizable
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Limited reporting tools
- No built-in time tracking
Flock is a comprehensive collaboration tool designed to enhance communication and teamwork within organizations. It is best due to its robust suite of shared productivity tools that keep progress on point and eliminate chaos and clutter.
Why I Picked Flock: I chose Flock for this list because it excels in aligning cross-functional teams by providing a centralized platform for communication and collaboration. Its ability to streamline decision-making and problem-solving through organized channels makes it stand out from other tools. Flock's focus on eliminating discord caused by messy chats and emails ensures that teams can work more efficiently and effectively.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include video conferencing, channel messaging, voice notes, integrated search, file sharing, to-dos, polls, and reminders. These features collectively help in maintaining seamless communication and collaboration across different teams within an organization.
Integrations include Google Drive, Trello, Asana, GitHub, Twitter, Dropbox, Mailchimp, Google Calendar, Zapier, and Jira.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 24/7 support
- Secure file sharing
- Robust productivity tools
Cons:
- Occasional notifications lag
- Limited advanced features
Webex is a collaboration and customer experience solution that integrates calling, meetings, messaging, webinars, and more into one platform. It's ideal for AI-driven collaboration, enhancing meeting experiences, automating tasks, and providing intelligent insights.
Why I Picked Webex: I chose Webex for this list because of its robust AI capabilities that set it apart from other collaboration tools. The platform's AI-driven features, such as real-time transcription, noise cancellation, and facial recognition, make it a standout choice for businesses looking to enhance their collaborative efforts. Additionally, its AI-driven collaboration tools are designed to improve productivity and streamline communication, making it the best option for businesses seeking intelligent collaboration solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include real-time transcription, noise cancellation, facial recognition, and automated meeting summaries. These AI-driven features help to create a more efficient and productive meeting environment.
Integrations include Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Trello, Asana, Box, Dropbox, ServiceNow, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High-security standards
- Comprehensive suite of tools
- Advanced AI features
Cons:
- Complex setup
- Occasional connectivity issues
Box is a collaboration tool for businesses that offers secure and AI-powered content management, workflow automation, and collaboration features. It leverages artificial intelligence to enhance productivity and streamline content-related processes.
Why I Picked Box: I chose Box for this list because it stands out with its robust AI capabilities integrated into content management. Unlike other tools, Box offers a comprehensive suite of features that cater to various business needs, from secure file sharing to workflow automation. I believe Box is best due to its ability to provide deep insights, automate processes, and maintain high-security standards.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include AI-powered content management, advanced security controls, and workflow automation. Box's AI capabilities help users extract insights from large documents, create content quickly, and make critical decisions faster. The platform also offers native e-signatures and over 1,500 app integrations, making it a versatile tool for various business needs.
Integrations include Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Slack, Zoom, Okta, Adobe Sign, DocuSign, ServiceNow, and IBM.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Workflow automation
- Advanced security
- AI-powered insights
Cons:
- Limited offline access
- Higher learning curve
Coda is a collaborative workspace that brings teams and tools together for a more organized workday. It combines documents, spreadsheets, and powerful integrations into a single platform, making it versatile for various business needs.
Why I Picked Coda: I chose Coda for its unique ability to merge documents, spreadsheets, and applications into one seamless platform. Unlike other tools, Coda's flexibility allows teams to create customized workflows and solutions tailored to their specific needs. This makes it stand out as the best all-in-one collaborative workspace.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include customizable templates, an AI assistant called Coda Brain, and over 600 integrations. These features enable teams to streamline their workflows, automate tasks, and collaborate more effectively.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Slack, Figma, Jira, Zoom, Salesforce, GitHub, Trello, Asana, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Over 600 integrations
- AI assistant
- Customizable templates
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited offline functionality
TitanFile is a secure file-sharing and collaboration platform trusted by professionals worldwide. It offers secure client collaboration, large file transfer, and document portal features, and is consistently rated as the most secure file-sharing platform on the market.
Why I Picked TitanFile: I chose TitanFile for its unparalleled focus on security and ease of use. TitanFile stands out due to its robust encryption, compliance with multiple security standards, and user-friendly interface. It is best because it combines top-notch security features with a simple, intuitive user experience.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include state-of-the-art security capabilities such as encryption in transit and at rest, compliance with ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II, PIPEDA, and HIPAA, and data residency options in the US, Canada, or Europe. It also supports large file transfers, allowing you to share files 100GB+ without limits on file sizes or quantity.
Integrations include Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, SharePoint, Slack, Salesforce, DocuSign, and Adobe Sign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly
- Large file transfers
- High security
Cons:
- Basic collaboration tools
- Limited customization
ClickUp is an all-in-one collaboration tool for businesses that aims to streamline work processes and improve team collaboration. It offers comprehensive project management features, making it the best for this purpose.
Why I Picked ClickUp: I chose ClickUp for its extensive range of features that cater to various business needs, from project management to time tracking and automation. Its ability to centralize project-related communications and provide a single source of truth for all ongoing projects makes it stand out. ClickUp is best due to its robust functionalities that enhance visibility, collaboration, and efficiency.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include project management, time tracking, chat, whiteboards, and automation. ClickUp enhances visibility with views, dashboards, reports, and goals, providing a clear view of ongoing projects and responsibilities.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, GitHub, Evernote, Outlook, Zapier, and Trello.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust automation
- Enhances visibility
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Complexity for small teams
- Steep learning curve
Other Collaboration Tools For Business
Below is a list of additional collaboration tools for business that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Confluence
Best for remote team knowledge sharing
- Slack
Good for real-time team communication
- Invision
Best for digital product design collaboration
- Connecteam
Good for mobile workforce management
- Miro
Good for collaborative whiteboarding
- Asana
Good for task tracking and project planning
- Basecamp
Good for stakeholder communications
- Wrike
Good for complex project management
- Kantata
Good for professional services automation
- Simpplr
Good for employee engagement
- G suite
Good for free Microsoft alternatives
- Hivebrite
Good for community building and management
- monday.com
Good for visual project management
- Stack Overflow
Good for developer collaboration
Collaboration Tools For Business Selection Criteria
Selecting collaboration software for business involves evaluating functionality and meeting specific use cases that matter most. Criteria relate to software buyer needs, pain points, and the intended use of the software. Features found in this type of software include task management, communication channels, file sharing, and integration capabilities. I have personally tried and researched these tools.
Core Collaboration Tools For Business Functionality: 25% of total weighting score
- Task Management
- Communication Channels
- File Sharing
- Integration Capabilities
- Real-Time Collaboration
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Unique features and functionality not offered by the competition
- Tools leveraging new and innovative features
- Exploring and testing for functionality that goes above and beyond generic collaboration apps
- Examples: AI-driven task automation, advanced analytics, customizable workflows
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Power and complexity vs ease of use
- Interface design aesthetic
- Drag-and-drop functionality
- Intuitive navigation
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Quick, simple, and easy onboarding
- Availability of training videos, templates, interactive product tours, chatbots, webinars
- Evaluating the post-purchase stage, migration to the tool, and start realizing the value
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- Availability and responsiveness of support channels
- Quality of support documentation
- Access to live support options
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Pricing against the competition
- Features offered relative to cost
- Scalability of pricing plans
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Commonly reported pros and cons
- Frequency of updates and improvements
Trends For Collaboration Tools For Business
Businesses are increasingly relying on team collaboration tools to improve productivity. Here are some key trends shaping the future of these tools.
- AI-Powered Collaboration: AI is integrated into collaboration tools to automate routine tasks. This reduces manual effort and increases efficiency. It is important because it allows teams to focus on more strategic activities.
- Virtual Reality Meetings: Virtual reality is making remote meetings more immersive. This technology helps in creating a more engaging and interactive meeting experience. It is interesting as it bridges the gap between remote and in-person interactions.
- Unified Communication Platforms: Unified communication tools are consolidating various communication channels. This trend simplifies workflows by bringing messaging, video calls, and emails into one interface. It is important to reduce the complexity of managing multiple tools.
- Real-Time Document Collaboration: Real-time document collaboration tools are becoming more sophisticated. These tools allow multiple users to edit documents simultaneously. It is interesting because it enhances teamwork and speeds up project timelines.
- Enhanced Security Features: Collaboration tools are incorporating advanced security features. This includes end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication. It is important as it protects sensitive business information from cyber threats.
These trends are shaping the future of business collaboration tools.
What Are Collaboration Tools For Business?
Collaboration tools for business are software applications designed to help teams work together more effectively by providing a platform for communication, file sharing, and project management. These tools are commonly used by teams in various industries to coordinate tasks, share information, and communicate in real-time, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
Components of collaboration tools typically include messaging systems, file-sharing capabilities, task management features, and video conferencing options. These elements work together to facilitate smooth communication, efficient task coordination, and easy access to shared resources, making it easier for teams to collaborate and achieve their goals.
Features Of Collaboration Tools For Business
Collaboration tools are essential for ensuring smooth communication and productivity in the business environment. These tools help teams work together efficiently, regardless of their physical location. Below are some of the most important features to look for in collaboration tools for business.
- Real-Time Communication: Enables instant messaging and video conferencing, which are crucial for quick decision-making and maintaining team cohesion.
- File Sharing: Allows team members to share documents and files easily, ensuring everyone has access to the necessary resources.
- Task Management: Helps assigning and tracking tasks, ensuring that projects stay on schedule and team members are accountable.
- Integration with Other Tools: Ensures that the collaboration tool can work with other software used by the business, enhancing overall productivity.
- Cloud Storage: Provides a centralized location for storing files, making it easy for team members to access and collaborate on documents from anywhere.
- User-Friendly Interface: Ensures that the tool is easy to use, which is important for quick adoption and minimizing the learning curve.
- Security Features: Protects sensitive business information through encryption and other security measures, which is essential for maintaining data integrity.
- mobile App: Allows team members to access the tool from their mobile devices, ensuring they can stay connected and productive on the go.
- Customization Options: Enables businesses to tailor the tool to their specific needs, enhancing its effectiveness and usability.
- Analytics and Reporting: Provides insights into team performance and project progress, helping managers make informed decisions.
Choosing the right online collaboration tools with these features can significantly enhance team productivity and streamline business operations. By focusing on these key features, businesses can ensure they select a tool that meets their needs and supports their goals.
Benefits Of Collaboration Tools For Business
Collaboration tools have become essential for businesses looking to enhance productivity, streamline communication, and foster innovation. Below are five primary benefits of using collaboration tools for businesses, aimed at potential buyers considering these solutions.
- Enhanced Communication: Collaboration tools provide a centralized platform for team members to communicate in real-time, reducing the need for lengthy email threads and ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
- Increased Productivity: By integrating various functions such as file sharing, screen sharing, document sharing, task management, and scheduling, collaboration tools help streamline workflows.
- Improved Project Management: These tools offer features like task assignments, progress tracking, and deadline reminders, which help teams stay organized and ensure that projects are completed on time.
- Remote Work Facilitation: With the rise of remote work, collaboration tools enable teams to work together effectively from different locations, providing access to shared resources and maintaining team cohesion.
- Data Security and Compliance: Many collaboration tools come with robust security features and compliance certifications, ensuring that sensitive business information is protected and regulatory requirements are met.
By leveraging these tools, organizations can foster a more collaborative and productive work environment, ultimately driving better business outcomes.
Costs And Pricing Of Collaboration Tools for Business
When selecting collaboration tools for business, understanding the costs and pricing options is essential. Whether you're a small business owner, a project manager, or an enterprise-level decision-maker, knowing the various plans and their features can help you make an informed choice.
Below is a breakdown of the common plans offered by collaboration tools, including free, personal, business, and enterprise plans.
Plan Comparison Table for Collaboration Tools for Business
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic communication, limited storage, basic task management, limited integrations |
| Personal Plan | $5 - $10 per user/month | Enhanced communication, moderate storage, task management, basic integrations |
| Business Plan | $10 - $20 per user/month | Advanced communication, increased storage, advanced task management, integrations |
| Enterprise Plan | $20 - $50 per user/month | Comprehensive communication, unlimited storage, advanced task management, extensive integrations, enhanced security |
Collaboration Tools For Business FAQs
Still wondering how collaboration tools for business can streamline your team’s workflow? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that should clarify things for you:
How can I ensure data security when using collaboration tools?
To ensure data security when using collaboration tools, it is crucial to choose platforms that offer robust encryption methods, both in transit and at rest. Additionally, look for tools that provide multi-factor authentication (MFA) and regular security updates. Implementing strict access controls and user permissions can further safeguard sensitive information. Regularly training employees on best security practices and monitoring for any unusual activity are also essential steps.
What are the best practices for integrating collaboration tools with existing systems?
Integrating collaboration tools with existing systems requires a thorough assessment of compatibility and interoperability. Start by identifying the key functionalities needed and ensure the chosen tools support these requirements. Use APIs and third-party integration services to facilitate smooth data exchange between systems. It is also important to involve IT and other relevant departments in the planning and implementation phases to address any potential technical challenges.
How do I measure the effectiveness of collaboration tools in my business?
Measuring the effectiveness of collaboration tools can be done through various metrics such as user adoption rates, frequency of use, and the impact on project timelines. Surveys and feedback from employees can provide insights into user satisfaction and areas for improvement. Additionally, tracking productivity metrics, such as the number of tasks completed and the time taken to resolve issues, can help gauge the overall impact on business operations.
What are the common challenges faced when implementing collaboration tools, and how can they be overcome?
Common challenges include resistance to change, lack of training, and integration issues. To overcome these, it is important to communicate the benefits of the new tools clearly and involve employees in the selection process. Providing comprehensive training and ongoing support can help ease the transition. Addressing technical challenges early on and ensuring compatibility with existing systems can also mitigate potential issues.
How can collaboration tools support remote and hybrid work environments?
Collaboration tools support remote and hybrid work environments by providing platforms for real-time communication, file sharing, and project management. Features such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and virtual workspaces enable teams to stay connected and collaborate effectively, regardless of their physical location. Additionally, cloud-based tools ensure that all team members have access to the latest information and can work on documents simultaneously.
What are the key considerations when choosing a collaboration tool for a large enterprise?
For large enterprises, scalability, security, and integration capabilities are key considerations. The chosen tool should be able to handle a large number of users and provide robust security features to protect sensitive data. It should also integrate with existing enterprise systems and support various workflows. Additionally, consider the level of customer support and the availability of training resources to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing use.
How do collaboration tools facilitate project management and task tracking?
Collaboration tools facilitate project management and task tracking by providing features such as task assignment, progress tracking, and deadline management. These tools often include dashboards and reporting functionalities that give an overview of project status and individual contributions. Real-time updates and notifications help keep everyone informed and ensure that tasks are completed on time. Integration with other project management software can further enhance these capabilities.
What are the best ways to encourage team collaboration using digital tools?
Encouraging team collaboration using digital tools involves promoting a culture of open communication and collaboration. Regularly scheduled virtual meetings, collaborative workspaces, and shared documents can help foster teamwork. Recognizing and rewarding collaborative efforts can also motivate team members to engage more actively. Providing training on how to use the tools effectively and ensuring that they are user-friendly can further encourage adoption and collaboration.
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