Teams | Collaboration | Customer Service | Project Management

September 2024

How to increase accountability in the workplace (tips, tools)

Want to know how to increase accountability in the workplace? Missed deadlines, repetitive mistakes, and a lack of trust and engagement can be a sign of poor accountability. However, picking up on these signs isn’t the end of it. You need to work on them too. So how do you increase accountability in the workplace? In this article, we’ll cover what accountability is and why it’s important for your business. We’ll also highlight nine tips to improve accountability in the workplace.

How to improve your retail merchandising strategy with Asana

Successful retail merchandising relies on teamwork and clear communication. Work management helps your retail team stay organized by assigning tasks, setting deadlines, and tracking progress in real-time. This lets you focus on improving the customer experience and boosting sales. Ever wonder why some retail stores just get it right every time? You walk in, and everything from the product displays to the store layout feels inviting and well thought out.

Top 40 BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) companies [2024]

Looking to outsource your operations to a BPO company? BPO companies offer specialized services that cater to various non-core business activities. These can be activities like data entry, call center operations, finance, market research, IT or even HR activities. In fact, the definition of “BPO” or Business Process Outsourcing has been evolving.

How to measure employee accountability (a guide)

Want to know how to measure employee accountability? If your team’s workload is piling with unfinished tasks, you’re receiving several calls from frustrated customers, or your meetings are transforming into frequent arguments — your organization could be struggling with poor accountability. So how do you diagnose and fix these problems? By measuring employee accountability. In this article, we’ll define employee accountability and highlight how you can measure it.

How to Start a Career in Project Management: A Guide

Starting a career in the project management field can be rewarding, especially given the high demand for skilled professionals in this sector. To begin, focus on developing essential project management skills such as risk management, budgeting, and team oversight. Gaining these skills can set the foundation for a successful career. Pursuing certification can also significantly enhance your qualifications.

Why compliance matters for a distributed workforce

The distributed or remote work structure has developed into a strong and dynamic paradigm that all organizations are rapidly adopting. However, compliance becomes increasingly important as businesses seek more remote and global talent. Compliance is more than simply performing the acts the law and other legal requirements compel one to do. Compliance concerns trust, data security, and sustainability in a distributed work environment.

What is contact center compliance & how to tackle it?

From customer details to call recordings, contact centers deal with tons of valuable data regularly. As a result, they must have the right systems to keep that data safe and secure to avoid a potential data breach. But how do you do that? Simple: through contact center compliance. Adhering to the established rules and regulations will empower contact centers to protect their customers’ private information.

October 2024 Version Update: Portfolio-Level Bookings & Bank Payments with Stripe

Earlier this year, we introduced the concept of bookings into Scoro, making it possible to do high-level resource planning in the project view. Now, we’re taking it a step further with the new Bookings module, making it easier to manage bookings across your entire portfolio. Let’s explore this and other updates for the month!

Project Management Software: A Complete Guide in 2024

Wondering how many project management software solutions are mainly in use today and need a handbook on them? You are on the right page. Efficiently managing projects is the only key to success and growth. Plus, given the circumstances of today, you need some software or tool of some kind for this task. You still can manage projects without project management apps. However, it would be at an expense. Moreover, it will be complex, time-consuming, and confusing, and tracking the progress will be hard.

Top 9 effective types of employee recognition to drive productivity

In a world where talent is the driving force behind every successful organization, recognizing employees isn’t just a gesture of goodwill—it’s a strategic imperative. The way we appreciate and acknowledge the hard work of our team members has the power to transform not only their performance but the entire company culture. Employees who feel seen, valued, and recognized for their efforts are more engaged, productive, and committed to the organization’s success.

The best software for Managed Services Providers

To win long-term business, managed service providers (MSPs) need to do more than simply deliver services: you need to keep operations on track, designate workloads efficiently, and build positive (and profitable) client relationships. But when you deal with complex systems all day, every day, the last thing you need is more complexity. That’s why no MSP software stack is complete without a powerful, scalable project management platform to plan, organize, and deliver their work.

Project budgeting software: 9 tools to manage budgets and maximize profitability

Keeping projects on track and within budget can get overwhelming if you don't have the right tools to help you track spending, manage resources, and deliver projects on time. This guide will help you get a handle on how to easily manage your project's budget while avoiding unforeseen expenses and cost overruns. We cover the basics of budget management, suggest the best tools for project managers, and highlight important features to think about when choosing a tool.

A comprehensive guide to resource management systems

Spinning plates, herding cats, keeping multiple balls in the air: there’s no shortage of creative terms to describe just how challenging it is to keep complex projects with lots of different parts running smoothly. When you work in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment like an agency or professional services firm, it’s essential to keep those plates—err, projects—on track.

How to Calculate Work Hours

Keeping track of work hours is crucial for employees and employers alike. For employees, understanding how to calculate work hours accurately helps prove their worth, become eligible for bonuses and compensations, and foster trust and reliability. Employers, on the other hand, calculate work hours to process payroll and determine productivity. No matter which side of the table you’re on, calculating work hours accurately is a much-needed requirement for your workplace.

The best client management software

For agencies, professional services, consultancies, and any other client-based business, delivering great work is only half the job. The other half is working alongside your clients to provide exceptional experiences, stellar communication, and flexible collaboration. It’s a constant balancing act between ensuring client satisfaction and staying profitable. To help you walk that tightrope, you need client management software.

User stories explained: Tips, templates, and examples

A user story is an informal explanation of a software feature written from the perspective of the end user. A typical user story will follow the format “As a .” Find out how to write effective user stories to accurately represent how a software feature will drive user value. When it comes to expanding your product capabilities, software updates are the key to increasing user value. User stories provide an explanation of a software feature from the viewpoint of the end user.

The 4 communication styles every manager should know

There are four main communication styles: passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive communication. Read about them, their signs, and how to support your team regardless of their communication style. Knowing how to effectively communicate with your team is critical. Communication is a key component of everything we do at work. Getting our own work done, collaborating with team members, delegating work to teammates, and sharing progress reports all depend on effective communication.

IT automation software

IT automation software is designed to automate repetitive processes that previously required a human touch. By using an IT automation tool, your team can focus on projects that truly move the needle forward. Handle time-consuming tasks like network monitoring, software updates, and server maintenance with ease. This blog post breaks down why IT automation software is a game-changer for teams, and how it can help you accomplish more with less.

Bring historical and forecasted data together with Financial and Utilization Insights

It’s time to have one report to rule them all! One that can tell the complete story for all things profitability and utilization—instead of disjointed fragments. Introducing Financial and Utilization Insights for Scale plans. A brand new dashboard-style report chock-full of past data and future trends to make monitoring your business performance a breeze.

13 Best AI Tools for Ecommerce

Want to start an Ecommerce business but don’t know how to manage each activity in a fully functional online store? Now is the perfect time to enter the Ecommerce market, with the number of online shoppers expected to reach 2.77 billion by 2025. To help you manage and optimize certain processes, AI tools for Ecommerce business can be your secret weapon, helping you get the help you need for your Ecommerce store.

The best agency management software in 2024

Agency management software helps you run your business, whatever you do. Tools like Teamwork.com let you manage projects, communicate with clients, track time, calculate invoices, and manage resources. A good agency management system integrates various functions into one platform, reducing human error and improving overall efficiency and communication, so you can complete your work on time and keep your clients happy.

Beyond the clock: Redefining productivity

At Productivity Compass, we believe in exploring diverse perspectives on how to best navigate the ever-evolving landscape of work. To delve deeper into the subject of productivity, we reached out to Parvati Ramachandran, a project management and productivity expert, for her insights.

Your guide to RACI charts, with examples

Can you identify exactly who’s doing what by when for each task, milestone, and deliverable in your project? If not, you might need a RACI chart. RACI is an acronym to help teams clarify project roles and figure out who the responsible party is for any given task. Whether you've never heard of RACI before or you’re considering creating a RACI chart for your next project, here’s everything you need to know about how to create and use these charts.

The best workload management software

Workload management tools help teams allocate workloads, manage resources, and make sure projects are completed on time. The tools give teams visibility over their work so they can manage projects and people without feeling overwhelmed. In this guide, we explore various workload management tools, how they can improve your workflow, and how to easily choose the right tool for your team. Overloaded? Not anymore!

Event proposal template: Free download and step-by-step guide

Like a resume, an event proposal showcases your event management skills and experiences for potential stakeholders to consider when deciding who will run an event. Use our event proposal template and follow these seven steps for writing an impressive proposal. Whether you're organizing an industry-wide seminar or seeking sponsorships for an upcoming tradeshow, a winning event proposal illustrates why stakeholders should trust that your event will be a success.

IT management software

Managing IT services can be challenging and time-consuming—but managing your workload doesn’t have to be. That’s why forward-thinking IT services businesses are adding project management and client operations to their tech stack. Using the right IT management software brings all your essential tools together in one centralized hub, so you can streamline operations and improve the quality of client experiences.

Virtual Onboarding That Sticks: How to Integrate New Hires Into a Remote Team's Culture

Onboarding new hires was already a challenge even before remote work became the norm. But now? It’s a whole different ball game. No more casual office chats or spontaneous coffee breaks to help new team members feel connected. Instead, they’re staring at a screen, trying to decode company culture through scheduled Zoom meetings and endless email threads.

7 Time-Efficient Tips for Work

In today’s fast-paced work environment, time is one of our most valuable resources. Whether you’re juggling multiple projects, dealing with constant emails, or trying to balance professional and personal responsibilities, the ability to manage your time efficiently is crucial. Time efficiency is not just about working faster; it’s about working smarter, making sure that the time you spend at work is productive and aligned with your goals.

What's new in Asana | September 2024

Welcome to the September edition of What’s new in Asana. First, copy charts from dashboards and paste them into external applications for presentations and documents. Next, archive inactive portfolios to maintain a focused view of current work while still retaining access to historical records. Finally, use AI chat to quickly and easily follow up on and add comments to multiple tasks. For a full list of what’s new this month, check out our Release Notes in the Asana Help Center.

The Best AI Tools for Startups in 2024

The startup environment is fast-changing and competitive. Success depends on constant innovation and operational efficiency. Getting ahead means using cutting-edge technology that can streamline processes and provide a competitive edge. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer in this context. There are many powerful tools in the field of project management, for example. AI tools offer startups a toolkit for success.

Requirements Management 101: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Requirements management helps you ensure your final project deliverable meets the needs of stakeholders. Simply put, a requirement is something stakeholders want or need, and requirements management helps you fulfill that need. Read on to learn how requirements management works, then do it yourself with six simple steps. It’s Friday night and you’re about to order pizza. You’ve got the phone in one hand and a list of requests from your friends in the other.

12 Self-Management Skills and How to Develop Them

In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, the ability to manage oneself effectively is a crucial determinant of personal and professional success. Self-management skills allow individuals to control their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in ways that lead to positive outcomes. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of a busy workplace or striving to meet personal goals, mastering self-management can make all the difference.

What Is Deep Work? Understanding the Concept and Its Impact

In an increasingly distracted world, the ability to focus intensely on cognitively demanding tasks has become a rare and valuable skill. The concept of deep work, popularized by productivity expert Cal Newport, highlights the importance of dedicating uninterrupted time to tasks that push our cognitive abilities to their limits.

Dan Timmiss: How to get your agency IT ready for scaling

As an Ops person, the role of IT expert is often part of the job. So how can you ensure your agency’s IT infrastructure is set up for scaling? That's the focus of our discussion with Dan Timmiss, Technical Director at Kaizen IT Solutions. With over two decades of experience, Dan has helped hundreds of creative agencies optimize and manage their IT setups, from audits to complete IT overhauls and supporting scaling teams.

7 Best Quoting Software in 2024: Features & Reviews

Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large sales team, automated quoting software can give you an edge in winning new business. But with so many options, finding the right quoting tool can feel overwhelming. So, we tested the best quoting software tools on the market to help you find the one that best suits your needs.

BYOD advantages and disadvantages [2024 guide]

From how offices are designed to the way people work, modern workplaces are undergoing dramatic changes. As a part of this shift in work culture, some organizations now allow employees to use their personal device for work. The Bring Your Own Device policy, as it is commonly known, is fast gaining popularity — especially with startups.

How Asana drives impactful product launches in 3 steps

There’s no secret recipe for the perfect product launch. It takes weeks, months, or even years of careful planning and coordination across teams. With more than 20 years in product marketing and experience working on countless launches, Eric Bensley, Head of Product Marketing at Asana, knows firsthand the value of a successful launch. According to Bensley, "there's nothing more critical for product marketers than a product launch.

The Best Business Management Software Analyzed

Running a business demands a delicate balance of managing tasks, tracking projects, and fostering efficient teamwork. Thankfully, technology offers a powerful toolkit to streamline these processes and enhance overall productivity. With the right business management software, you can orchestrate your business processes, foster collaboration, and meet your objectives. Business management software performs various functions and streamlines workflows.

Understanding Workflow Automation: Key Benefits & Definition

Have you ever wondered how businesses streamline complex tasks and boost productivity? The answer lies in workflow automation. Organizations can use workflow automation tools and software to automate routine work and decrease errors while increasing productivity. But what exactly is workflow automation? In this article, we’ll look at its definition, provide some examples, and discuss its benefits.

Everything you need to know about BYOD security

If your company allows employees to use their personal devices for work (Bring Your Own Device), you need a BYOD security policy. Today, most companies incorporate a BYOD culture due to rising remote work demands following the pandemic. While this may leave you open to cyberattacks and data breaches, a robust security policy can help mitigate any such BYOD risk. In this article, we’ll discuss why you need BYOD security and how to create an effective BYOD policy in just eight steps.

How to streamline compliance management software with work management tools

Compliance management software streamlines the process of complying with industry regulations and internal policies by automating tasks like documentation, monitoring, and reporting. Compliance software helps companies avoid costly fines, reduce risks, and maintain a strong reputation by ensuring they consistently meet regulatory requirements with minimal manual effort. Drowning in regulatory paperwork? You're not alone.

Crafting an effective compliance policy: A comprehensive guide

Given today’s intricate regulations, every organization, no matter its size, must have a strong compliance policy. A well-written compliance policy lowers risks and guarantees that your business complies with all applicable laws. In this blog post we will learn what makes a strong compliance policy, how to make one, and common traps to avoid.

The top 10 compliance training software in 2024

In the modern, fast-paced corporate environment, it is more crucial than ever to comply by regulations that are continuously changing. By using the appropriate compliance training software, you can ensure that your business maintains current industry standards, stays out of financial trouble, and maintains a favorable reputation. The features, prices, and benefits of each product are highlighted as this article looks at the top compliance training software for 2024.

Kanban vs Scrum vs Agile vs waterfall: What's the difference?

If you’re not sure which project management methodology or framework will be the best to manage your team, we’re here to help. Learn everything about Kanban, Scrum, Agile, and waterfall—what they stand for, how to use them, and the benefits and drawbacks. We’ll also explore key comparisons, such as Kanban vs Scrum and Agile vs waterfall, to help you identify the right fit for your cross-functional team. Waterfall. Agile. Kanban. Scrum.

Introducing Formula Fields: Hello robust reporting and goodbye manual calculations

It’s time to put away your calculator and stop exporting data to external spreadsheets just to apply calculations. Introducing Formula fields - add, subtract, multiply, and divide fields to spin up the perfect insights in your custom reports!

5 key steps for correcting non-compliance

In a world where accountability and integrity are crucial for business success, compliance goes beyond just following the law. When there’s non-compliance, it’s not just an inadvertent slip-up; it’s a major problem that needs immediate corrective action. Correcting non-compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about reinforcing the trust and confidence of stakeholders, customers, and employees.

Billable Rates 101: A Guide For Professional Services

Everyone knows you need solid revenue and profits to build a sustainable business. But there are lots of different factors influencing those areas. To truly understand your revenue and profits, you need to first understand billable rates and your average billable rate (ABR). This way, you know how efficiently you’re generating revenue and profits. And can adjust your pricing or resource allocations to boost your margins. Here are the basics.

Monitask vs. actiTIME: A Comprehensive Comparison of Time Tracking Tools

Time tracking tools have become essential for businesses aiming to optimize productivity and manage work hours efficiently. Two popular options in this space are Monitask and actiTIME. While both offer robust features for tracking employee time and managing tasks, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.

Top 11 KPIs for Consulting Services to Drive Profitability

KPIs for consulting services tell you whether your firm is on track to achieve its objectives or falling short. Without tracking these metrics, you can’t objectively evaluate performance in key areas like financial health, resource utilization, client acquisition, and project efficiency. Boost your project success and profitability by accurately measuring the 11 most important KPIs for consultants.

Your guide to regulatory compliance in a data-driven world

Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of responsible business. The trouble is, compared to actual cornerstones – which are stable and solid – regulatory compliance is more like molding putty. There is a myriad of workplace compliance regulations, including some you might not realize apply to your business. Many of the regulations overlap. Others contradict. In this complex landscape, a regulatory compliance policy is crucial for any business handling sensitive information.

The top compliance metrics every organization should monitor

Understanding and keeping track of compliance metrics is important to ensure your company stays efficient and in line with the rules. Compliance metrics give you useful information about your company’s compliance program and help compliance officers, teams, and upper management make choices based on facts. You can monitor compliance efforts, lower compliance risks, and boost total performance if you know and use the right metrics.

Monitask vs Harvest: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Leading Time Trackers

In today’s fast-paced work environment, effective time management is crucial for both freelancers and businesses. Time tracking tools like Monitask and Harvest have emerged as popular solutions to help professionals monitor productivity, bill clients accurately, and optimize workflow. While both tools offer essential time-tracking features, they differ in their approach, pricing, and functionality.

10 Ways Agency Experts Improve Project Profitability

Project profitability is crucial for agency growth and stability. Stronger profit margins mean leadership can invest more money into the business. And continue to scale at a sustainable rate. Even if you understand the importance of project profits, being tasked to find concrete ways to actually improve them can feel stressful. But no worries—we talked to agency experts to learn how they’ve boosted their project profits. Use their advice to help increase your own.

Building a strong compliance culture: A blueprint for success

In today’s rapidly changing business environment, having a strong commitment to compliance is essential; it’s not something that can be overlooked. An organization’s activities must follow the field’s laws, moral standards, and best practices. This creates a culture of stability and trust. More oversight from regulators and adding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors mean that companies need to make compliance culture a key part of their strategy.

Are your remote workers overemployed? Here are the red flags

Because more people are working from home, being overemployed is becoming more prevalent, which makes things harder for companies. People are overemployed when they have more than one full-time job, often without telling their bosses about it. This can give workers financial security, but it also comes with a lot of risks for businesses. To stay productive, follow moral standards, and make sure your online team works well, you need to be aware of and deal with the risks that come with overemployment.

Project Management Timelines: Your Ultimate Guide

Don’t use simple to-do lists to manage complex projects. These basic lists leave lots of room for errors, like missed tasks and dependencies. Which lead to project delays, frantic resource shuffling, and frustrated teams and clients. Instead, use a project timeline that provides a clear, visual roadmap of all parts of the project. We’ll cover the ins and outs of different types of timelines. And how to build a realistic one that still lets you adapt to unforeseen challenges.