2023's Top Business Messaging Apps for Project Management and Organization
Nowadays, working remotely has become more and more common, especially given current circumstances. As we continue to embrace this new way of working, it’s essential to understand how powerful messaging apps can be for businesses.
Many instant messaging platforms aim to help organizations run more smoothly by making communication easier. These handy chat apps enable team members, even those in different locations, to collaborate in real-time without hassle.
The best instant messaging apps for business out there also come packed with extra features on the platform. Some fan favorites include the ability to share files, make audio and video calls, and manage projects efficiently
Connecteam is an employee management and engagement software application designed for non-desk employees. It is a mobile-first platform that helps improve communication, enhance daily processes, and save time.
Connecteam is trusted by many businesses to streamline their work and manage their workforce. It allows managers to put every business process on autopilot and focus on business growth while freeing time for employees.
Connecteam is an all-in-one employee app that helps businesses communicate, operate, and train their non-desk employees. It is easy to use, customizable, and affordable.
Features
Features and BenefitsManage, train, and communicate with your non-desk workforce, all on Connecteam’s easy-to-use app
Fully personalize your employee app to suit your business
simplify employee communication, enhance professional skills, manage daily tasks, and more
Mobile-first, all-in-one application that was designed to allow users to manage and communicate with non-desk employees
Provides its solution to companies in more than 50 different industries
Pricing plans
The Connect team has four price plans that include:
$0 Small Business Plan
Free for life!
Full access to all hubs and features
$29 Basic plan
Filter dates for more than 30 days
Time tracking includes all report types, GPS, and unlimited jobs
Slack is a popular instant messaging and video app for businesses designed to connect people with the information they need, facilitating organizational communication. Slack is developed by Slack Technologies and owned by Salesforce. It is a single place for messaging, tools, and files, making it an instant messaging system with numerous add-ins for other workplace tools.
Though primarily intended for professional and organizational communications, Slack has also been adopted as a community platform. Its primary purpose is simplifying communication for teams across various locations, making it particularly useful for businesses with worldwide offices or freelancers with multiple clients.
Features
Instant messaging and communication with team members
Voice and video calls
Integration with third-party tools
Code creation and project management
Data protection
Collaborative work platform across devices
Set reminders and get notified
Know team availability.
Pricing plans
Slack offer three price plans that include:
$7.20 Pro pan
Unlimited message history
Unlimited apps and integrations
Unlimited lightweight, voice-first huddles
Secure work with other companies using Slack Connect channels
$12.20 Business+ plan
99.99% guaranteed uptime
User provisioning and de-provisioning
SAML-based single sign-on
Data exports for all messages
Enterprise Gold – Contact Slack for a price estimate
Unlimited workspaces
Support for data loss prevention (DLP), e-Discovery, and offline backup providers
HIPAA-compliant message and file collaboration
Pros
Easy-to-use interface
Integration with other tools, apps, and bots to streamline work
Offers multiple benefits such as instant messaging and communication with team members
Simplifies communication for businesses
Offers open discussions, private groups, and direct messaging
It can be used on various devices
It provides a free version with basic features
Cons
It can be overwhelming for some users due to the number of features
It can be distracting for some users due to the constant notifications
It can be expensive for larger teams
Some users may prefer other communication tools depending on their needs and preferences.
Microsoft Teams is a proprietary business communication platform developed by Microsoft as part of the Microsoft 365 family of products. Teams primarily compete with the similar service Slack, offering workspace chat and videoconferencing, file storage, and application integration. It is designed for employees who speak with customers or run day-to-day operations.
Microsoft Teams intelligently connects people with the information they need more efficiently and collaborate. It offers communities, events, chats, channels, meetings, storage, tasks, and calendars in one place, making it easy to connect and manage.
Features
Business messaging
Calling
Video meetings
File sharing
Real-time messaging
Audio calls
Breakout rooms
Improved whiteboard
Live transcription
Spotlighting people
Comprehensive meeting and calling experience
Built-in, fully integrated voice and video conferencing
Integration with other Microsoft 365 apps and services
Mobile app for on-the-go collaboration
Pricing plans
Plans include:
$4.00 Team Essentials
Unlimited group meetings for up to 30 hours
Up to 300 participants per meeting
10 GB of cloud storage per user
Anytime phone and web support
Unlimited chat with coworkers and customers
Files sharing, tasks, and polling
Data encryption for discussions, chats, calls, and files
Live captions in meetings (English)
$6.00 Microsoft 365 Business Basic
Microsoft Whiteboard
Hundreds of collaborative apps
Collaborative annotations in Teams meetings so that participants can contribute to shared content4
Live captions in meetings (over 30 languages)
Team meetings recordings with transcripts
Web and mobile versions of Microsoft 365 apps
Expanded cloud storage of 1 TB per user
Business-class email
Standard security
$12.50 Microsoft 365 Business Standard
Everything listed in Microsoft 365 Business Basic, plus:
Desktop versions of Microsoft 365 apps with premium features
Webinar hosting
Attendee registration and reporting tools
Manage customer appointments
Pros
Integration of all tools in a single place
Provides a fully decked-out document storage, chat, and online meeting environment
Offers a comprehensive meeting and calling experience
Built-in, fully integrated voice and video conferencing
Offers a mobile app for on-the-go collaboration
Provides a secure platform for communication and collaboration
Offers a free version with basic features
Cons
Difficulty in logging in using an ID and password to join a meeting
It can be overwhelming for some users due to the number of features
It can be distracting for some users due to the constant notifications
It can be expensive for larger teams
Some users may prefer other communication tools depending on their needs and preferences.
Zoho Cliq is a team messaging software designed to facilitate communication and collaboration within organizations, offering a competitive alternative to Slack and Microsoft Teams. The platform features a unique columnar design that allows users to manage multiple chats and channels simultaneously, as each conversation opens in its panel or column.
Features
Real-time messaging
Columnar design
Group video call
Security
Integrations
Message formatting
Incoming webhooks
Pricing plans
The pricing plan includes the:
Free
Searchable messages: 10k for org
File storage: 100GB for org
Max. participants per channel: 100
User provisioning and de-provisioning
Google/Google Apps sign-on
SAML-based single sign-on (SSO)
Screen sharing
Remote work
Read receipts
Threads
Scheduled messages
$1 Unlimited
Everything in the Free Edition +
Searchable messages: Unlimited
File storage: 100GB per user
Rebranding
Custom domain
Custom email
Custom user roles and permissions
User groups (Teams)
External channels
Multi-team channels
Announcement channels
Exclusive security policy for teams
Reports
Guest chat
Call recording
NewNetworks
Pros
Simple and obvious interface
Pin chats feature for easy access to important conversations
Integration with Zoho One and other Zoho products
Robust communication platform for remote and hybrid workplaces
Clean UI with a variety of features
Video and voice functionality for effective collaboration
ProofHub is a cloud-based project management and team collaboration software that offers a range of features to help teams plan, collaborate, organize, and deliver projects of all sizes on time. It is an all-in-one project planning software that provides every tool your team needs to get work done faster and together. ProofHub offers core features such as task management, project templates, Gantt charts, time tracking, and team collaboration tools.
It is a cost-effective solution that eliminates the need for multiple tools and helps teams stay organized and on track. ProofHub is easy to use and has no learning curve, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes and industries. With ProofHub, teams can streamline work processes, improve communication, and increase productivity.
Features
Projects
People
Tasks
Kanban
Gantt charts
Discussions
Files
Proofing
Custom reports
Time tracking
Quick add menu
Custom roles
Centralized files
Notes
Timers
Workflows
Pricing plans
Pricing plans include:
$45 Essential
40 projects
Unlimited users
15GB storage
$89 Ultimate Control
Unlimited projects
Unlimited users
100GB storage
Pros
Offers an all-in-one solution for project management and team collaboration
Provides a range of powerful features such as task management, Gantt charts, time tracking, and team collaboration tools
Centralizes file sharing with its file management tool
Offers a cloud-based solution that can be accessed from anywhere using the internet and a web browser
Provides mobile apps for on-the-go collaboration
Offers a free trial and affordable pricing plans
Suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries
Cons
Some users may find the interface overwhelming due to the number of features.
The learning curve may be steep for some users.
The software may not be suitable for businesses that require advanced project management features.
Twilio is a cloud team messaging app enabling businesses to build, scale, and operate customized communication solutions using APIs for SMS, voice, and video. Twilio is an excellent platform for developers to develop and deploy communication features quickly and easily. It provides a wide range of communication channels, such as SMS, voice, and video, and offers APIs, SDKs, and libraries that can be used to integrate communication features into applications.
Twilio is an excellent choice for businesses that want to build messaging apps. It allows software developers to programmatically make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages, and perform other communication functions using its web service APIs. Twilio’s API-centric approach and tools catered to developers are praised for enabling businesses to personalize and expand their communication channels seamlessly.
Features
Channels
In-App Messaging
Customization
Security
Scalability
Analytics
Pricing plans
Only pay for what you use
Pros
Offers a wide range of messaging channels, including SMS/MMS, web chat, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, social media direct messages (DMs), and Google Business Messages.
Provides APIs, SDKs, and libraries that can be customized to meet the specific needs of businesses.
Offers enterprise-grade security features, including encryption and two-factor authentication, to ensure that messaging apps built on its platform are secure.
Provides detailed analytics and reporting tools that allow businesses to track the performance of their messaging apps and make data-driven decisions.
Offers a highly scalable cloud-based platform, allowing businesses to handle large volumes of messages and users easily.
Provides mobile apps for on-the-go messaging.
Cons
Some users may find the interface overwhelming due to the number of features.
The learning curve may be steep for some users.
The software may not be suitable for businesses that require advanced messaging features.
The twist is an asynchronous messaging app that combines email, chat, and forums within a unified collaboration space. It is designed to make collaboration easy from anywhere by using threads to organize conversations. The twist is an excellent choice for teams that are spread across time zones and must communicate asynchronously.
It offers a range of features such as channels, threads, direct messages, and integrations with tools such as Trello, Asana, and Zapier. The twist is known for its calm and organized approach to team messaging, which helps teams stay focused and productive.
It is an excellent alternative to other messaging apps like Slack and Microsoft Teams. The twist is a comprehensive solution that can help businesses and organizations improve communication, increase productivity, and streamline work processes.
Features
Threads: Twist uses lines to organize conversations, making it easy to follow discussions and stay focused.
Channels: Twist offers channels that can be used to manage conversations by topic or project.
Direct Messages: Twist allows users to send direct messages to individuals or groups.
Integrations: Twist integrates with other tools, including Trello, Asana, and Zapier.
Mobile App: Twist offers a mobile app for on-the-go messaging.
Security: Twist provides end-to-end encryption and other security features to ensure secure messages.
Pricing: Twist offers a free plan with limited features and an affordable pricing plan for the Unlimited plan.
Pricing plans
$0 Free Trial
Access up to 1 month of comments and messages
Up to 5 integrations
Up to 5 GB file storage
Standard support
Up to 500 internal member accounts
Up to 500 external guest accounts
$6 Unlimited
Access the entire history of comments and messages
Unlimited integrations
Unlimited file storage
Priority support
Unlimited internal member accounts
Unlimited external guest accounts
Pros
Offers an asynchronous messaging approach that helps teams stay focused and productive.
Provides a range of features such as channels, threads, direct messages, and integrations with tools such as Trello, Asana, and Zapier.
Offers a free plan with limited features and an affordable pricing plan for the Unlimited plan.
Provides a calm, organized approach to team messaging that helps reduce stress and anxiety.
Offers a mobile app for on-the-go messaging.
Cons
It may not be as feature-rich as other communication tools on the market.
The free plan has limited features.
It may not be suitable for businesses that require advanced messaging features.
Vmaker is a free screen and webcam recorder used to create screen-recording videos and video messages for all your workplace communication needs. You can send quick video messages by recording your screen and webcam, give video feedback on the work, create product demo videos, facilitate team collaboration, and more.
Continuous real-time communication can drain your teams’ mental resources and hinder productivity. Vmaker enables your team to communicate asynchronously. They don’t have to be available in real-time to communicate but can do so at their own convenience.
Features
AI-Powered Virtual Background for screen and webcam recording
Screen Annotation to highlight your video
Blur Tool to hide sensitive information on your screen during recording
Share screen recordings with anyone from your team
Built-in Video Editor for trimming, cropping, rotating, or resizing your recordings
Pricing plans
Plans include:
$0 Lite Plan
Unlimited number of recordings
No watermark
Video Quality up to 720p
$7 billed yearly Starter Plan
Everything in the Light Plan +
Video quality up to 4K
Unlimited video access
Record mic and system audio simultaneously
AI-powered virtual background
Blur tool
Screen annotate and mouse emphasis
$8 billed yearly Team Plan
Everything in the Team Plan +
Create Folder
Direct YouTube uploading
Record Scheduler
Enable auto-expire to videos
Add a custom subdomain
Custom Logo and Color on the video player page
and more
Pros
Easy to use
Record an unlimited number of videos
No watermark in the videos, even in the free plan
High-definition videos
You can even schedule a recording session with Vmaker by setting the time and date
Has an in-built video editor
24/7 priority support
Cons
Vmaker is yet to launch the Android and iOS application.
Factors to choosing the best business messaging apps
When selecting the best company messaging app for your team, there are several factors to consider. Let’s break down some of the most critical factors to help you make an informed decision.
Identify your business needs: Before choosing a messaging app, it’s essential to identify your needs and requirements. What features do you need? What integrations are essential? Do you require specific security or compliance features? Understanding your needs will help you choose an app that best meets your business requirements.
Consider user experience: Choose an app that is intuitive and easy to use. Consider the user experience from the perspective of your team members. Will it be easy for them to navigate and utilize the app? Will it help them work more efficiently?
Look for customization options: Choose an app that allows you to customize settings and preferences to meet the needs of your team. Can you create custom channels and roles? Can you set up notifications and alerts to keep your team informed and organized?
Evaluate security and privacy features: Look for an app prioritizing security and privacy. Does it offer end-to-end encryption? Does it comply with industry standards and regulations? Will it protect your sensitive business data?
Consider integration options: Choose an app that integrates with other business tools and systems. This will help you streamline workflows and improve productivity. Does it integrate with popular tools like Trello, Asana, or Salesforce?
Evaluate cost and pricing plans: Consider the cost and pricing plans for the app. Choose an app that offers transparent pricing and a variety of plans, so you can select the plan that best fits your budget and needs.
Future trends in business messaging apps
One trend is the integration of all tools in a single place. Microsoft Teams, for example, allows users to utilize the functionalities of multiple apps, such as Planner, Outlook, and SharePoint, without leaving the app’s interface. Integrating tools in a single place makes communicating and collaborating more convenient for users.
Another trend is the use of asynchronous messaging. Apps like Twist use threads to organize conversations, making it easy to follow discussions and stay focused. Asynchronous messaging allows teams to communicate without the pressure of real-time communication, which can be especially helpful for teams that are spread across time zones.
Innovations in business messaging apps will likely focus on improving communication and collaboration. For example, we can expect to see more features that allow for sharing ideas, documents, and videos. We may also see more integrations with other tools and services, making it easier for teams to work together seamlessly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right messaging app for your business requires careful consideration of your needs and requirements and an evaluation of the app’s features, user experience, security and privacy, integration options, and cost.
By taking the time to make an informed decision, you can choose an app that helps your team communicate and collaborate more effectively, improving your overall business success.
From delivery date pickers to shipping rate calculators, these apps can help you provide a better customer experience and improve your bottom line. So, if you’re ready to take your Shopify store to the next level, head over to the article and start exploring these helpful apps today!
Moshe