Apps are the new Internet: a technology boom that is making some people a pile of money while simultaneously changing the way other people do business. While it's true that many apps are simply new and shiny ways to do the same old thing, a few rise above the rest and improve business communication immensely.
If you haven't already, check out these rock star business communication apps (and share your favorites in the comments!):
1. GoToMeeting
One of the top apps for collaborative efforts with remote participants. Different features range from a private chat room to the ability to broadcast screenshots to a range of participants.
2. Skype
The instant message service is useful, but it's the free international phone and video chat that really makes this app shine. Use it to get face time with your clients and allies all over the globe.
3. GoogleChat
GoogleChat picks up where Skype left off by adding options for multi-party video chat, synchronized chat rooms, and combining the app with other Google tools like Drive and Google+.
4. CampFire
CampFire is a group collaboration tool that keeps a record of the entire conversation, no matter how long or complex. The service is great for those brainstorming sessions where nobody remembers the best idea from early on in the conversation. CampFire's parent company, 37Signals, also produces Basecamp and Backpack to meet your other communication needs.
5. Yammer
The trouble with social media is that everybody can read it -- even your competition and that former team-member who doesn't take his NDA seriously. Yammer sets up a Twitter-style interface open only to team members you choose to include. You get the off-the-cuff communication of social media without the risks.
6. TeamBox
TeamBox combines instant messaging, file sharing and project management modes to let teams collaborate on complex projects without having to leave the interface for more information. It's an upgrade to communication-centric apps for teams that need that extra functionality.
7. CodeBase
CodeBase is for coders what TeamBox is for creatives and project managers. The app combines chat and collaboration tools with a database of code so that multiple team members can simultaneously work on the same program.
Apps come and go every day and given the way things are going this post could be obsolete before the end of the year.
What apps are you using to help make your office communications faster, cheaper and better?
