What do you do if virtual collaboration is hindering productivity in manufacturing operations?

2 Choose the right tools and platforms

Another important factor for virtual collaboration is the choice of tools and platforms that you use to communicate, share information, and coordinate tasks. You need to consider the compatibility, accessibility, security, and functionality of the tools and platforms that you use, and make sure that they suit your needs and preferences. You also need to train your team members on how to use them effectively and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Some examples of tools and platforms that can facilitate virtual collaboration are video conferencing, cloud storage, instant messaging, and collaborative software.

3 Establish regular communication and feedback

Communication is essential for any collaboration, but especially for virtual collaboration. You need to establish regular communication and feedback channels with your team members, as well as with other stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, and managers. You need to communicate clearly, concisely, and respectfully, and use different modes of communication depending on the purpose and urgency of the message. You also need to provide constructive feedback, acknowledge achievements, and address any problems or concerns promptly. You can use tools like email, phone, chat, and surveys to communicate and collect feedback.

4 Build trust and rapport

Virtual collaboration can sometimes feel impersonal and distant, which can affect the trust and rapport among team members. You need to build trust and rapport by creating opportunities for social interaction, sharing personal and professional information, and showing appreciation and recognition. You can also use techniques like icebreakers, team-building activities, and virtual coffee breaks to foster a sense of connection and camaraderie. You can use tools like social media, online games, and virtual events to build trust and rapport.

5 Monitor and evaluate the results

Finally, you need to monitor and evaluate the results of your virtual collaboration project, and see if you have met your goals and expectations. You need to collect and analyze data, such as time, cost, quality, and customer satisfaction, and compare them with your benchmarks and targets. You also need to solicit feedback from your team members and other stakeholders, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of your virtual collaboration process. You can use tools like dashboards, reports, and SWOT analysis to monitor and evaluate the results.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?