Harry runs a graphic design company in Los Angeles and his major client right now is a luxury store based in Hong Kong. He hopes that geographical distance will not matter in fulfilling their deliverables as he noted the advances in modern technology. He asks this question:
“We are a design company and we have bagged a major account handling the graphic advertising requirements of a big firm with offices in Hong Kong and mainland China. Since we are continents and a different time time zone away from our client, there’s no doubt that meetings and discussions about our project will be done virtually or remotely.We have been using Skype and Google apps for the most part but is there another software we can use to make the work easier for everyone? Thanks in advance, your input on this matter will be greatly appreciated.” Harry, CA
Thinking about your question, what easily comes to mind is a client collaboration software. This is a cloud hosted solution you can use to upload files, share documents, create time sheets as well as specify tasks and deadlines for each team member. You can do web based presentations while your client sees the designs you are working on, place comments and approve the same using customized templates. Basically, the purpose of the software is to set in place a virtual system for productivity knowing you are miles away from your client. Likewise, you get an organized workspace which will let you store valuable data without need for cumbersome hardware. You will also be able to interact in real time with your client through instant messaging, live chat and other tools.
Here, we list some of the important questions you’re bound to ask regarding client collaboration software:
How do I install this software?
A client collaboration software can be easily set up in minutes for as long as you have internet connection.It will primarily require you to do some basic configuration, enter the server domain name in the address bar, and this should lead you to the login page. It is best to ask the vendor for an online demo, otherwise the software should come with the requisite installation manual.
What price do I have to pay to have the client collaboration software installed?
It’s advisable to look online for the best features that will work you, do a comparison and see it it jibes with your budget. Certainly, there are some free software available in the market. However, for diverse needs that might require you to purchase a software, better get a handle of a trial package first that’s usually complimentary so you can test out a software for its bells and whistles.
What features do I need to look for?
It all depends on the tasks you need to accomplish for the project. When looking for client collaboration software, consider the following basic features:easy setup, ease of use in terms of having a simple navigation pattern, document handling and file sharing capability, a friendly platform that will let you input tasks, schedules, and reports without a hassle.
Likewise, there are industry-specific software features applicable to graphic design such as one which will enable you to mount drawing boards and mock-ups for your team to brainstorm on, so good to look for that too.
We wish you luck!
P.S. For further reading on collaboration software, I recommend the following helpful guides: top 3 collaboration software online tips to choose the best service for your small business; why cloud collaboration software use for storage and file sharing is a good idea; and top tips for web-based collaboration software.
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