How can you use instant messaging apps to coordinate a community organizing team?

2 Set up your channels

The next step is to set up your channels, or the groups of people who will communicate through the app. You can create channels for different aspects of your organizing work, including the core team, subteams, allies, and stakeholders. It is important to name your channels clearly and consistently, and invite only the relevant people to join them. Additionally, you should assign roles and responsibilities to each channel member, such as moderators, facilitators, or reporters. This will help ensure that communication is effective and efficient and that everyone knows what is expected of them.

3 Establish your norms

The third step is to establish your norms, or the rules and expectations that guide your communication through the app. This should include agreeing on the frequency and timing of messages, the tone and style of messages, and the purpose and content of messages. You should discuss and document your norms, and remind each other of them regularly. Additionally, review and revise your norms as needed, based on feedback and experience. Respect, clarity, and efficiency should be promoted in messages, with an emphasis on avoiding irrelevant, repetitive, or sensitive messages. This includes using emojis, abbreviations, or slang if desired while proofreading and editing for grammar and spelling.

4 Manage your notifications

The fourth step is to manage your notifications, or the alerts and reminders that inform you of new messages on the app. Notifications can be beneficial, as they keep you aware of your team's updates, but they can also be disruptive if they break your focus or become too overwhelming. You should adjust the settings and preferences of the app to find a balance between helpful and distracting notifications. This includes customizing the sound or vibration for different channels or contacts, selecting what information you see in the pop-up or banner, and deciding which messages you want to receive notifications for. Additionally, you should activate or deactivate the do not disturb or silent mode according to your needs and preferences. It is important to respect other people's notifications and avoid sending messages that are urgent, important, or relevant.

5 Monitor your impact

The fifth step is to monitor your impact, or the results and outcomes of your communication through the app. To do this, you should review indicators such as team member engagement and participation, the quality and efficiency of your team work, and the influence and outreach of your team message. Collecting data and feedback on your impact is key, as it can be used to improve communication and coordination. Celebrating achievements and challenges on the app, as well as appreciating each other's efforts and contributions, will also help to ensure success.