Essential Guide

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Editor's note

Social media, messaging and file-sharing applications have forever changed the way we share information at home and in business.

In the business world, however, the value of enterprise collaboration software extends well beyond document sharing. Companies are creating knowledge-sharing communities to boost employee productivity and effectiveness and bring external collaborators into the fold. In addition, social media extends business operations into the consumer realm, encouraging customers to share expertise and influence product development.

This guide examines the many ways companies use collaboration tools and techniques to achieve their business goals and explores the promise of collaboration technology for not only sharing information, but also generating new ideas.

1How to develop a successful collaboration strategy

To achieve success, enterprise collaboration tools have to be matched to a well-devised business plan. Companies need to link collaboration initiatives to use cases to prove ROI to upper management and the everyday workflow value to employees.

2Employees stay connected -- inside and outside the office

Organizations are using enterprise collaboration software to keep remote workers and external contributors connected, streamline project workflows and share information more efficiently.

3Social business involves customers in a collaborative process

Customers have become an important part of collaboration processes. Businesses tap into customer activity on social media channels to not only improve brand exposure and customer service, but also generate new product ideas. Companies still need to take control of online communities to guide the conversation and protect sensitive information.