Benefits of Project Management Software
Distant assistance is here to stay. It is now the new normal as more people have come to embrace the benefits of remote work. Hiring managers also have started to adopt a more flexible workforce, given the rising need for talent.
What can you do to make it work and be able to run a more efficient business? The use of project management software is key.
In this post, we discuss:
- Project management for distant teams
- The right time to upgrade to a software
- Popular project management software benefits
Managing a Distributed Workforce
Distant teams comprise a multitude of today’s workforce. They work in remote locations all over the world and operate on an agile environment, where assignments are handled under flexible work phases.
Working with one another requires collaboration and communication through the Internet. There are many things to do in so little time and the tools that you use can either derail or advance you forward.
Project management helps members gain a better understanding of assignments and sets the direction for them. Still, you could only complete as many as time permits.
Related: What is a Distant Assistant?
Management Problems
Every workplace has its own unique organizational DNA. It also has its own set of challenges. Statistics show that the biggest challenges include hitting deadlines, sharing of information and ensuring that members are working.
The lack of physical interaction only makes it difficult to determine how assignments are advancing.
Benefits of using project management software:
1. File Sharing
Gone are the days when you have to juggle between cloud storage links and file sharing through emails. There is now project management software that stores internal folders for the entire team.
You simply upload your file to a specified folder. You can also create new folders and, if you still prefer using cloud storage, you can upload the file link instead.
This way, you get to share the file with your team and access them all in a single platform.
2. Direct Messaging
Get in touch immediately with your distant team through direct messaging. Basecamp, for example, has a messaging feature that allows one-on-one or group conversations similar to Facebook Messenger.
It also comes with file upload and emoji functions. A mobile version of the software is also available for convenience.
3. Project Scheduling
Project management software goes beyond basic scheduling. It provides a more accurate preview of the project duration through calendars and to-do lists.
Some programs, such as Redbooth, also provide Gantt Charts for a more detailed preview. It shows not only the time allocated but also the people assigned to the project.
4. Time Tracking
Time spent per project is undoubtedly valuable and it is normal to expect your team members to be working as they should.
No wonder time tracking is among the most requested features in project management software. Some offer built-in trackers, while some allow third-party integrations.
The important thing is you know how you want to track projects. You may ask yourself questions like, “Do I need real-time tracking for my team? Or, do I only need to see how the project is moving toward the deadline?”
After all, you might only want a simplified overview of the project. Using a separate time tracking software, like HiveDesk, can be more convenient and useful with its advanced features.
Conclusion
Project management is useful when working with remote assistants. It empowers teams to stay updated and be more engaged in their work. Thus, investing in suitable software can definitely bring long-term rewards.
Yet, at the same time, it can add to the challenges if you aren’t very familiar with how it works. Before making the purchase, review your weak spots in getting things done and understand the things that you need to improve.
It also helps to assess your resources and check how soon you can proceed with an upgrade.
The ideal software not only matches your budget but also proves itself useful in connecting and guiding team members so that your business operations remain smooth and productive.
Looking to hire a distant assistant? Get started with a free consultation at Bottleneck Distant Assistants.
About Jaime Jay
Meet Jaime Jay – a man who wears many hats, and wears them all admirably. He's a master connector, an entrepreneur extraordinaire, and a published author who knows how to get things done.
Before he found his way to the business world, Jaime served his country as a brave paratrooper in the U.S. Army. But that's just the beginning of his many accomplishments.
He's the founder of the renowned Bottleneck Distant Assistant Services firm, and his book "Quit Repeating Yourself" has become a must-read for entrepreneurs everywhere.
When he's not busy building his empire, you can find him on his beloved Harley Davidson, cruising through the countryside and taking in the invigorating effects of Uitwaaien – a Dutch practice that involves facing the wind to boost health and relieve stress.
He enjoys spending his free time outside building stuff with his wife, Nikita the dog and their two kittens (for now at least) Tommy and Tater.
He is ‘over-the-moon’ happily married to his wonderful wife Sara, his amazing daughter, Jessica, who is serving our country as a United States Army soldier. Jaime and Sara are the proud grand parents of two beautiful little girls.
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