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1.Team Communication: Slack.com

• Slack.com is a great communication tool we can use amongst the team. The main feature that we can easily recognize is the use of “hashtags” to start-up new conversation threads or channels with any member(s) of the team.
• This software will allow us to respond quickly to questions, receive feedback on our projects promptly, and to check in with other departments whether we are working in/out of the workspace with its instant messaging interface.
• One drawback some may have trouble with is keeping track of the “channels” using the hashtags.

2. Document Sharing: Google.drive

• This is a great platform we can utilize for file sharing, file storage, and workflow organization. This should be fairly recognizable if you have a Google Account, and if you don’t there’s no additional setup fee.
• The service is 100% free and we can accommodate as many users as needed for each department at no additional cost.
• You also have the flexibility of knowing you can use this remotely with an internet connection and transfer your files using any mobile device(s)

3. Version Control: Google.drive

• As you might have noticed Google.drive supports version control. You have the ability to have multiple copies of the same file that could be stored and retrieved at any specific time by selecting File->Create revision. This also allows you to view the revision history of any file. Especially helpful when working with other members of your department.
• It is recommended to create individual folders for each project, as the main page can seem a bit cluttered with other files.

4. Prototyping: Invision App

• Widely used by many companies around the world, this app is heavily reliable and has had great success. The interface is smooth, easy to follow, and easy to get your ideas from prototype-to-functional. With features like adding transitional gestures through mobile apps/ webpages, full screen previewing, drag & drop uploading, this should feel natural within seconds of signing up.
• Compatible with Drop.box, Google.drive files, along with PDF, JPG, PNG or GIF, and more.
• Mobile apps are also available for on-the-go editing.

5. Time Tracking: Hubstaff.com

• Hubstaff provides all-in-one time tracking with the capability of viewing in detail the total number of hours spent on projects, setting up budget tracking and/or spending, timesheet summaries & generate payroll. The software can be installed onto Mac & Windows operating systems.
• The initial setup is a 14-day trial, however, other pricing packages are available for larger companies/departments by reaching out to them directly. It can be a bit expensive, but the ability to view each others’ progress in one place saves a lot of time overall.

6.Project Management: Hubstaff.com

• Being able to time track with Hubstaff will not only allow for more accuracy but also increase our productivity. The dashboard can handle multiple tasks (To-do lists) including being able to drag & drop projects from other project management software that you may be working on. Colour coded project deligation can be done quickly, summary reports can be processed and submitted with ease to any Team Lead in seconds.

7. Code Testing: Github.com

• Github is a large showcase where you can broadcast your projects with a large community of other web developers and design enthusiasts. Be able to track all the changes and make copies of your code before pushing publicly. The program will take some time to get used too as the interface looks more technical than others.
• The cost is on the higher end, however claiming the effort, time & investment worth it for the flexibility and peace of mind for any project.

8. Digital Marketing Analytics: Google Analytics

• This will give you the data and tools you need to drive your business forward in today’s fast-paced digital community. You can sign up for free and have this installed directly to your Google Chrome web browser. Find what is working on your webpages and what is not. With real-time feedback, you can connect with your audience & gain deeper insight into how users are viewing your content.

9. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Moz.com

• Moz.com is available in a Free or Pro version, with Pro offering additional services for premium pricing. Essentially it has the core items needed to Audit, Track performance ratings, and traffic, and refine keywords being used to look up your business or design content. You can pick your plan, and cancel at any time with no payment penalty if you decide it won’t be a good fit for your team.

10. Page Speed Testing: GTmetrix.com

• This is a Free & Pro (paid) page testing tool that can be installed directly to your desktop or PC.  You will be able to test the performance levels of the page, discover why the loading is slow, and familiarize yourself with solutions for future webpage developments.
• Reviews mention great feedback on the information provided and are used globally. Key features include an easy to view dashboard, reporting system, notification alerts, graph visuals, and testing for mobile devices.