Our communication field is globally expanding and our society is rapidly getting used to seamless exchange of information. Communication has evolved in the last decade alone and these changes have affected business communication. We believe that one of the biggest keys to success of a business is forward-thinking and adapting to trends in communication has made a huge difference.
Businesses scratch and claw to remain competitive to embrace changing times so they have to keep up with business communication trends to be ready for the future.
1. Social Intranet Platform
Social intranet platforms have been on the rise in the last few years. This trend has been met with constant engagement and excitement. The look is similar to what you may find on public sites like Facebook or Twitter however, these platforms are designed to improve internal communication within the company. Using these platforms, everyone can contribute with different ideas and collaborate their work while feeling like part of a community.
2. Collaborative Digital Workspaces
Modern organizations recognize that team work or group work specifically is central to their success. We have seen traditional spaces replaced with collaborative digital workspaces that fuel better support processes, creativity and a sense of community. Collaborative digital workspaces support informal group interaction which can give employees the confidence and freedom to be creative comfortably and have meaningful discussions at the same time.
3. Combined Communication
Combined communication involves integration of multiple real-time and near real-time communication systems. This includes the integration of a mass texting service using API, phone, video conferencing, messaging, feedback and commenting systems. Combined communications also provide a consistent user interface and experience across a range of devices and media types. By bringing multiple channels, the combined system reduces expenditure and improves communication. It enables employees to be reachable at any time.
4. Video Conferences
Video conferencing has been around since the 80s but have usually ben used for board room executive meetings. Today, most smartphones pack a decent camera which allow employees and management to call anytime, anywhere. Virtual meetings have also saved a great deal of cost especially for companies with employees in different locations. Plus, most video conferencing apps today have other features as well so you can send documents, texts and even share screens.
5. Enhanced Mobile Devices.
Smartphones have become the biggest communication trend in the last decade. So much so, that a smartphone has become an all in one gadget replacing laptops, gaming consoles, and even television. For business, employees having smartphones means that they do not have be glued to their desks at all time to get work done. They can work on their devices, access company data and communicate with the team as well. Plus, intra platforms also work on smartphones and tablets so you can establish internal communication just about anywhere and it can be just as efficient.
6. Cloud-based apps.
We are basically living in the clouds now with more and more services going that way. They have been absolutely vital for small businesses who cannot afford a fully-integrated custom system for themselves. Plus, these apps are also accessible on mobile devices with real-time communication, editing and other advanced options like sharing.
7. Chat services.
Chats are an old innovation but they are still around and getting revamped everyday with multiple features like video, audio and file uploads. They now enable employees to do everything faster and from one channel effectively. Some social intranet platforms also pack a chat feature which you can use to communicate with anyone at your work place subject to their availability.