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I think these are all good suggestions, although there's actually a danger in trying to employ too many tools (especially in an enterprise, where you're probably more likely to encounter less-skilled technologists who may be frightened by such an array of apps). The biggest key, in my experience: find basic, reliable ways to communicate, standardize on them, and use them consistently. The biggest problems in remote work always seem to stem from people going invisible: no communication, no signs of work being done. One tool that the OP doesn't mention, but should be a staple among companies of all sizes: Google Hangouts. You can make a permanent hangout using Google Calendar (search for this and you'll find how-tos). It's like a clubhouse, and it's really good for quick chats as well as full-on multi-person meetings. For pairing, my team has been using a combination of Hangouts with tmux, which is an app similar to GNU Screen, but with next-generation features. (E.g.: when you split a window, or change to another one, everyone in the session sees it! Simpler configuration, too.) We've found that this simple combination of live video chat with multi-user terminal access is actually better than working together in person. Both people can communicate easily, and no one has to move out of the way of the keyboard. :-) edit: wording |
> One tool that the OP doesn't mention, but should be a > staple among companies of all sizes: Google Hangouts. You > can make a permanent hangout
It's interesting to see the potential evolution beyond just text chat for remote teams.
I've never used a permanent video Hangout (although Hangout's new group chat features might work well). I'm excited to try out sqwiggle.com - similar result, but it just takes a still picture of you every few seconds: same effect, less bandwidth/worries about leaking your music to your coworkers 1,000 miles away.