[kreck]

We made the exact same experience (our company is also roughly 3.5 years old). In the beginning it was US who suggested to open a slack because we thought it would help us to resolve questions quickly. However we observed that this only incentivises to have chat discussions over topics that are better discussed and resolved in person/over Skype or via an thoroughly thought through e-mail that cuts straight to the problem. In addition it added another communication channel we HAD to monitor from that point onwards because our clients had learned from US that we’d respond quickly, so not responding was not an option. This was especially problematic for our developers who would get disrupted way more often. In addition communication was scattered among channels which made it difficult for the PM to stay ahead.

Our lives are easier and our communication with our clients is way more productive ever since we abolished slack.