Let’s face it: juggling multiple apps is about as fun as a Monday morning without coffee. At We Are AG, we decided enough was enough. So, in a bold (some might say slightly mad) move, we said cheerio to Notion and Trello and went all in on Slack. Yes, you read that right, we put all our virtual eggs in one digital basket, and guess what? We’re loving it!
Why Slack, you ask? Well, when you’ve been using it as your internal messaging tool since 2016, it’s like that comfy pair of slippers you just can’t part with. Except these slippers just got rocket boosters.
So, grab a cuppa and settle in as we spill the tea on how ditching the old and embracing Slack has turned our workflow from “meh” to “marvellous.”
Why We Went All In on Slack
We’d been happily slacking off since 2016 (in the best way possible), using Slack to chat, share memes, and discuss work. But behind the scenes, we were entangled in a web of apps – Notion for documentation, Trello for project management, and who knows what else for random notes scribbled on virtual napkins.
Managing multiple platforms was starting to feel like spinning plates while riding a unicycle. Eventually, something was bound to crash. So, we had a lightbulb moment: Why not consolidate everything into Slack?
It was a revelation akin to discovering that the remote control has been in your hand the whole time.
Slack ticked all our boxes:
- Centralised Communication: Because who doesn’t love having messages, files, and updates all in one place? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of apps.
- Customisable Workflows: Tailored templates that fit our quirky needs? Yes, please!
- Integration Capabilities: Seamless connections with other tools and services, so we can keep all our toys in one sandbox.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive platform we’ve been cozy with for years. No awkward getting-to-know-you phase required.
- Powerful Search Functionality: Quickly find any information, old messages, or that GIF you sent last week.
- Easy Access to Workflows: All workflows are conveniently located in our main Slack channel, accessible with a simple click. Even Dave from accounting can find them!
Angela: “The new Slack system, with workflows in each channel, has made it much easier for us to complete tasks efficiently. It’s streamlined everything under a single platform, which is our main communication hub. Having all resources like bug reports, MEKO, and even biometrics in one place is incredibly helpful. It’s not just about chatting any more; everything is organised and makes sense. I’m really enjoying it!”
Integrating all our tools
One of Slack’s superpowers is its ability to play nicely with others. We’ve been using these integrations for ages, but moving everything into Slack was like assembling the Avengers of productivity.
Here’s how we’ve supercharged our workflow:
Automation Testing of Releases
Slack integrates with our automation testing tools to notify the team when new releases are being tested. Now, everyone knows when the latest and greatest is about to drop – no carrier pigeons required.
GitHub Actions Notifications
When an update is pushed through our GitHub Actions, Slack whispers sweet nothings (or, you know, notifications) to the team. Real-time updates keep everyone in the loop about code changes and deployments. It’s like having a town crier, but less shouty.
Outage Tracker Integration
We’ve hooked up our outage tracker to Slack to monitor if any payment company decides to take an unexpected nap. Early detection allows us to brace ourselves for the incoming wave of support tickets and maybe stock up on chocolate.
These integrations not only make us look like superheroes to our customers but also keep our sanity intact. Having them centralised in Slack is the cherry on top of our productivity sundae.
Bringing the Team Closer Together
Working remotely can sometimes feel like shouting into the void. But Slack has become our virtual office water cooler (minus the awkward small talk).
Here’s how Slack has become our team glue:
- Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time messaging and collaboration tools make it easier for us to work closely together, even if we’re all in our pyjamas.
- Stronger Connections: Shared activities like MEKO (Mental Energy Kick-Off) and spontaneous GIF wars have strengthened our team bonds.
- Unified Culture: Having everything in one place helps maintain a consistent company culture and ensures everyone is on the same quirky wavelength.
- Efficient Support: By helping each other promptly, we can collectively provide the best support to our customers. Teamwork makes the dream work, right?
Visibility and Transparency
As a team leader, being able to see the big picture is crucial. Thanks to Slack, with MEKO updates, customer happiness metrics, and integration notifications all in one place, I can now:
- Monitor Team Well-Being: Stay informed about how the team is feeling and who’s in need of a virtual high-five.
- Provide Support: Quickly spot areas where someone might be drowning in tasks and throw them a lifeline.
- Celebrate Successes: Recognise achievements and milestones, because who doesn’t love a good shoutout?
Having this visibility allows us to be smarter with our time and ensures that we’re all rowing in the same direction (preferably away from any icebergs).
Catrina: “Ever since we went all in on Slack, my productivity has skyrocketed! Having everything in one place feels like I’ve found the ultimate cheat code to work. No more juggling apps, it’s all right here, and I couldn’t be happier!”
Embracing Slack Templates and Workflows
Slack’s customisable templates have turned us into workflow wizards. Here’s how we’ve sprinkled magic into our daily routines:
🐞 Bug Reporting Made Easy
We’ve transformed bug reporting from a dreaded chore into a walk in the park.
- Simplified Submission: Report bugs directly within Slack using a user-friendly form. No need to wrestle with clunky systems.
- Easy Access: The bug reporting workflow is just a click away in our main channel. Even Barry, who still uses Internet Explorer, can find it.
- Tracking and Resolution: All bug reports are automatically logged and categorised. Bugs, beware!
- Team Collaboration: Real-time discussions help squash those pesky bugs faster than you can say “debug.”
Screenshots: Bug Reporting Workflow Interface (Imagine something shiny here)
🏖️ Simplified Time-Off Requests
Because everyone deserves a break, and we deserve an easy way to approve it.
- Effortless Requests: Submit time-off requests without leaving Slack. Planning that beach getaway just got easier.
- Easy Access: Find the time-off request workflow in our main channel. No need to send cryptic emails to HR.
- Swift Approvals: Managers receive instant notifications and can approve requests faster than you can pack your suitcase.
- Team Awareness: The team stays updated on who’s available, so we don’t accidentally schedule a meeting when half the team is sipping cocktails.
Screenshots: Time-Off Request Workflow (It’s glorious, trust us)
🧠 Mental Energy Kick-Off (MEKO)
We introduced MEKO to help our team start the day with a bang (or at least a gentle nudge).
- Morning Motivation: Engage in activities that boost mental energy, like yoga, reading, or chasing the dog who stole your shoe.
- Shared Experiences: Team members share their MEKO activities in Slack, fostering camaraderie and maybe a bit of friendly competition.
- Easy Access: The MEKO logging workflow is just a click away. No excuses!
- Enhanced Productivity: A positive start leads to a productive day, or so we’ve been told.
Screenshots: MEKO Sharing in Slack Channel (Feel the zen)
Acknowledging Our Inspirations
We’d be remiss not to tip our hats to Ben Meredith from GiveWP. His Playbook and MEKO concepts have been like a lighthouse guiding our ship through the fog.
- Valuable Insights: Ben’s expertise provided a strong foundation for our Playbook. He’s basically the Yoda to our Luke.
- Adaptable Framework: We’ve customised his ideas to fit our team’s unique flavour (extra spicy).
- Gratitude: We’re incredibly grateful for his contributions and the positive impact they’ve had on our team. Ben, if you’re reading this, you’re a legend!
Integrating Our Support Playbook into Slack
Our Support Playbook is now snugly nestled within Slack, and it’s a game-changer.
- Instant Access: No need to switch apps to find essential information. It’s all right there, like magic.
- Easy Updates: Any changes to procedures are immediately available to the team. No more outdated PDFs lurking about.
- Collaboration: Team members can discuss and clarify Playbook content in real-time. Communication is key, after all.
- Convenient Location: Accessible with a simple click in our main channel. Even better than finding a fiver in your pocket.
Screenshot: Support Playbook in Slack (It’s as exciting as it sounds)
Enhancing Team Help Requests
Gone are the days of shouting into the void for help.
- Efficient Submission: Team members can request assistance directly in Slack. No smoke signals needed.
- Easy Access: The help request workflow is easily found in our main channel. Just click and go.
- Prompt Responses: Notifications ensure help requests are seen and addressed quickly. Because time is money, folks.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Discussions can happen instantly, reducing delays and frustration.
Screenshot: Help Request Workflow (Ta-da!)
Logging HelpScout Monthly Customer Satisfaction Rates
Because who doesn’t love a good chart?
- Monthly Reporting: Monthly reports are posted in a Slack template.
- Transparency: The entire team stays informed about our performance metrics. Knowledge is power!
- Actionable Insights: Immediate access to data allows us to address issues promptly and celebrate successes with virtual confetti.
- Centralised Access: Reports are easily accessible. No treasure map required.
Screenshot: Customer Satisfaction Report in Slack (Ooh, data!)
Exploring New Possibilities
We’re not ones to rest on our laurels. Here’s what’s cooking:
Logging Useful Information for Helping Customers
Imagine having a treasure trove of helpful tidbits at your fingertips.
- Diverse Content: This could include screenshots, Loom videos, or excerpts from support tickets. Variety is the spice of life!
- Easy Logging: Using Slack’s workflows, team members can quickly log this information. Easy-peasy.
- Categorisation: Content can be tagged and organised into categories for easy retrieval. Marie Kondo would be proud.
- Powerful Search: Slack’s search functionality allows us to find exactly what we need when we need it. No more wild goose chases.
- Convenient Access: All of this will be available with a simple click in our main channel. Because we love clicks.
Imagine being able to pull up a helpful screenshot or a step-by-step video tutorial instantly during a support interaction! Mind blown.
Screenshots: Logging Useful Information Workflow (It’s a thing of beauty)
Charles: “The new Slack templates have truly been a game-changer for our team. They have significantly streamlined our collaboration process, making it more efficient and organised. The ability to quickly track tasks and manage workflows has greatly reduced the difficulties we previously faced. While I’ve only been using the feature for a short time, the improvements in productivity and communication are already evident, and I can confidently say that I can’t envision relying on any other tool to meet our needs moving forward.”
Keeping Everything in One Place
By consolidating our tools into Slack, we’ve achieved the holy grail of organisation.
- Centralised Information: From the Playbook to customer satisfaction rates and integration notifications, everything is accessible within Slack. It’s like our digital Hogwarts.
- Improved Communication: Organised channels and direct messages keep conversations focused. Less noise, more action.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Work together seamlessly without leaving the platform. Convenience level: expert.
- Enhanced Efficiency: With everything in one place, our team can focus on what matters most—delivering exceptional support and maybe planning the next team meme.
- Easy Access to Workflows: All our essential workflows are available in our main Slack channel, making them readily available with a simple click. Accessibility for the win!
Benefits We’ve Experienced
Since moving to Slack, we’ve been reaping the rewards:
- Increased Productivity: Less time spent switching between apps means more time for actual work.
- Better Communication: Instant messaging and organised channels keep everyone in the loop.
- Stronger Team Connection: Shared activities like MEKO bring the team closer together. We’re basically family now.
- Efficient Workflows: Customised templates streamline processes like bug reporting and time-off requests. Smooth sailing ahead!
- Enhanced Transparency: Access to HelpScout customer satisfaction rates keeps the team informed and motivated. Knowledge is power!
- Unified Resources: The Playbook and other key documents are easily accessible to everyone. No more scavenger hunts.
- Proactive Issue Management: Integrations like our outage tracker keep us ahead of potential problems. We’re basically psychic.
- Easy Access to Tools: All workflows are conveniently located in our main Slack channel. It’s like having a toolbox with all the best gadgets.
- Improved Oversight: As a leader, having everything in one place makes it easier to support the team and monitor overall performance. Big Brother is watching (but in a good way).
- Smart Time Management: By helping each other efficiently, we can be smarter with our time and provide the best support to our customers. High fives all around!
What’s next
In the grand adventure of productivity, we’ve taken a leap of faith and landed squarely in the land of Slack, and we couldn’t be happier. By giving Notion and Trello the heave-ho, we’ve not only streamlined our processes but also brought our remote team closer together (cue the group hug).
As a small team, being smart with our time and helping each other is super important to us. This collaboration allows us to give our customers the best support possible. Plus, it frees up time for more important things, like debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza.
We’re not stopping here. The possibilities with Slack are endless, and we’re excited about our plans to enhance our workflows further. By leveraging Slack’s capabilities, we’re looking to:
- Create a Repository of Customer Support Materials: Log and categorise screenshots, videos, and text snippets to assist in customer interactions. Knowledge is meant to be shared!
- Utilise Slack’s Powerful Search: Quickly find helpful resources when needed, improving response times and support quality. Because nobody has time to dig through digital piles.
- Develop More Custom Workflows: Automate routine tasks and streamline processes even further. Efficiency nerds unite!
- Maintain Easy Access: Continue to ensure that all workflows and resources are accessible with just a click in our main channel. One click to rule them all.
- Foster Team Unity: Continue to bring the team closer together, enhancing collaboration and camaraderie in our remote environment. Teamwork makes the dream work!
- Expand Integrations: Explore additional integrations to further enhance our proactive support capabilities. The sky’s the limit!
We’re chuffed to bits about the future and the potential for even more improvements as we continue to explore Slack’s features. If you’re considering a similar move, we highly recommend giving Slack a whirl. It might just revolutionise the way your team works, or at least make your workday a bit more enjoyable.
Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ve got some Slack channels to customise and maybe a cheeky GIF to share.
Note: Throughout this blog post, we’ve included screenshots of our new Slack workflows and integrations, such as Bug Reporting Made Easy, Time-Off Requests, MEKO sharing, and more. These visuals provide a glimpse into how Slack has transformed our daily operations. But you’ll have to imagine them for now, use your creative powers!