Turn your internal communication into a success factor with these (digital) tools

It's no secret that good internal communication improves employee engagement. Studies show how it can positively impact trust in leaders. It also contributes to better productivity - by activating employees' creative abilities.

The big question that many communicators always ask themselves is: What tools do I need for effective internal communication? Sadly, there's no universal answer to this question. That's why we're helping you out by comparing both analog and digital tools for internal communication - and giving an overview of potential providers. We can't decide which tools are right for your business, but we can make your decision process easier.

Internal communication tools vs. internal communication channels- the differences

Let's begin with a definition. Although internal communication 'channels' and 'tools' are often used synonymously, they differ, so it's important to understand how. Internal communication channels are used for communication, for example, emails or messages on the intranet.

Internal communication tools - our focus in this blog - are software applications and platforms that improve collaboration and communication within the company. In other words, platforms that can become a channel for internal communication.

Channels are important because they transport messages - but you can only truly reach your employees with the right tools. Next, let's distinguish the difference between digital and analog tools for internal communication.

An overview of digital and analog tools in internal communication:

There are many suitable providers for every digital tool. Here are some examples:

• Slack: Known as a messaging app, Slack offers a free plan for small teams and paid plans with more features and storage. Slack provides channels for teams or projects, and file storage. It can also be integrated, for example, with Google Drive.
• Zoom: Perhaps the best-known platform for video conferencing. Zoom offers both free and paid plans, with the paid plans providing advanced features such as recording and transcription.
• Asana: Better project management with tasks and deadlines. Asana offers a free plan for small teams and paid plans with more features and storage.
• Google Drive: Google Drive offers paid plans for companies and organizations. The big advantage: being able to edit documents and spreadsheets in real-time. A plus, especially for remote teams. 
• Microsoft Teams: The best-known collaboration app. Besides video calls, Teams also offers chat and file-sharing functions. It can be extended as desired with other Microsoft apps. Included in subscriptions.
• Jive: Nothing to do with dancing. Jive is a social intranet software for companies. Communicate and interact with one solution. Prices depend on company size and requirements.
• SpeakAp: An employee app for communication, task management, and collaboration. Prices vary depending on company size and individual requirements.
• Flip: As a platform or employee app 2.0 for operational employees, Flip not only offers the usual functions of internal communication, but also combines project management, task planning, and integrations to existing IT systems in one easy mobile platform.

Choosing the right tool for internal communication depends on many factors, including the size and structure of your team, your budget, and your organization's specific needs. Here are some aspects to consider when choosing a tool:

1. Functions: What specific functions do you need to support your internal communication? Do you need video conferencing, project management, or file sharing?
2. Ease of use: Is the tool user-friendly and easy to pick up? Do your team members need a lot of training to use it effectively?
3. Integration: Does the tool integrate with other software and platforms used by your team? Can it be easily integrated into your existing workflows?
4. Cost: What is your budget for an internal communication tool? Are there free or low-cost options that meet your needs, or do you need to invest in a more robust and expensive solution?

Perhaps you need a little more help making your decision? We've expanded these four factors with seven additional criteria to make it a little easier for you. With these checklists, you can compare options effortlessly and decide which tools for internal communication suit you best.

Once you've made your decision, the first step is to effectively introduce your internal communication tool. With all the will in the world, the best tool won't improve anything if employees don't use it. In our seven-point plan we explain how you can successfully introduce a new tool.

Then comes the next important step: measuring success and effectiveness. These key figures will help you in your assessment:

1. Engagement: Do team members use the tool regularly? Do they respond to messages and participate in discussions?
2. Collaboration: Does the tool help facilitate collaboration and teamwork? Do team members work more efficiently and effectively?
3. Productivity: Can team members complete tasks and projects more quickly and easily using the tool?
4. Feedback: What do team members think of the tool? Are there any problems or concerns that need to be addressed?

Good and effective internal communication can distinguish between success and failure in business. Your biggest challenge is ensuring you reach all your employees, and choosing the right tool for internal communication can make all the difference. Only you can decide which is the right tool for your business, but we hope this blog makes your choice more straightforward. Above all, pick a tool that provides you with data - with analytics, you can measure your success and improve internal communication even further. Good luck!