Digital connectors and collaborators: the people and tools that forge connections and networks in the digital workplace

DWG has published several resources related to connection and collaboration in the workplace. In this article, we’ve rounded up 5 points to help you enhance collaboration in your organization.  

1. To measure the impact of collaboration, start at the end 

The best way to think about collaboration is that it needs to be purposeful, with a desired and defined outcome. If you can define that outcome before the collaboration kicks off, the more likely you are to measure its impact. 

Read: How to encourage and measure impactful digital collaboration – Digital Workplace Group 

2. Make time for connection 

Focus on creating an adaptive environment where in-person time is carefully planned to enhance collaboration and connection. Be intentional about how office time is experienced to ensure successful communication and collaboration. 

Listen: Grammarly: How to create connection with a remote-first approach 

3. Streamline tools to break down the silos  

A central communication and collaboration platform can break down silos and bridge information gaps in organizations where departments use different tools and processes, making digital alignment challenging. Provide clear guidance on what tool to use when, to help end-users navigate the digital ecosystem.   

Read: ‘What tool when?’ – helping employees to navigate the digital workplace and optimize their use of tools and The 5 enemies of effective workplace collaboration   

4. Foster a culture of trust   

By providing employees with the autonomy to choose where and when they work, organizations can enhance collaboration and communication, as employees feel more valued and respected. Fostering a culture of trust encourages open communication and collaboration, enhancing the overall work experience. 

Read: Post-holiday blues? Does hybrid working help?   

5. Actively plan for collaboration 

Maintaining and enhancing connection and collaboration in the digital workplace requires active planning and deliberate strategies.  

Physical proximity matters when it comes to collaboration and communication; this is one of the core reasons why providing digital collaboration tools does not inherently lead to greater collaboration. It must be carefully planned and engineered, especially where teams are not co-located.  

Organizations should ensure their workforce has the digital literacy to navigate the ever-changing digital tools needed for collaboration.  

Read: Working with intention and purpose in a hybrid working world 

Categorised in: Collaboration