I especially like the ability to be notified of a new message via my phone where I can read the message on the phone but can step over to my laptop to reply.

For example, I can respond from my home computer, tablet, work computer or via my phone. I like the ability to stay in touch with our users via whatever device I'm currently using. I find that it cuts down on my email dependence but I'm often frustrated when attempting to compose a message without standard elements such as tables, inline images, etcetrera.

I started using Slack because my client required it. The Slack call quality can sometimes be unreliable and audio quality isn't amazing. Someone who reccomended this product did warn to be careful that it may take over our lives, and they weren't wrong! Through no fault of Slack, the ease of adding channels, setting up groups etc does admittedly add to the noise that can sometimes be a distraction. As a personal favourite feature, the option to upload custom emojis makes messaging easier, not just for fun but in the cases where logos/symbols can be easily understood by everyone, it makes quick shorthand. The options of private/direct group conversations and public and private channels make the various types of cross-team communication most companies need so simple that it's hard to remember how we got anywhere when relying on email. With various integrations it can also be a real timesaver when on the move. After using it for over 2 years now, the results are that people in our organisation can manage their communication and let it fit in their workflow. With public channels, anyone can decide if they continue to remain invovled or just choose to 'mute' a channel, even just for a period of time. In a similar way, it avoids the CC happy emails where some team members may not need to be included and is an unnecessary distraction. Slack removed a reliance on internal emails which often fell short where key people weren't copied in or involved in the discussion. It is hard to imagine a way of managing teams in different countries any other way. Making progress on internal discussions can start in seconds with a Slack group chat.

Slack cost