Internal Comms is undergoing a digital transformation. From a single comms channel- emails, we have indeed come a long way with customized intranet sites, collaboration, video and social platforms, widgets and company branded apps. Digital tools when organised as a well thought out communication architecture provide the ability to communicate and collaborate at the right place and at the right time. The architecture provides for multiple channels of communication, enabling message reinforcement, a god-sent, given the fast moving and evolving nature of the work environment. No matter where you are, today, digital tools ensure that we have all the information we need, when we need it, without the fear of missing out.

To overcome internal communication barriers, you can leverage digital tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for real-time collaboration and instant messaging. Use project management software like Trello or Asana to keep tasks organized and transparent. Video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet facilitate face-to-face discussions with remote teams, while internal newsletters and intranet systems ensure everyone stays informed. These tools improve engagement, streamline workflows, and ensure that communication remains clear and accessible across the organization.

Digital tools can be super helpful, but they’re only effective if they actually fit your team’s needs. Before implementing anything, figure out where things are breaking down. For instance, are people missing updates, or are they unclear about expectations? Then, bring in tools like shared calendars for better communication without overwhelming everyone. Check in regularly, and make adjustments as needed. The key is finding what works best for your team, not just using tools for the sake of it.

Building a digital community offers two-way communication options that greatly enhance the message from the sender and the audience's call to action. In a previous role, I launched The LeadersEdge for people managers across the company. With an 80-90% active user rate, the community achieved several objectives by encouraging discussion, including: 1) Enabling members to act as 'channels of influence' both within the community and among their teams by sharing what they learned. 2) Facilitating new connections across departments. 3) Fostering best practice sharing. 4) Providing executives with better visibility into the organization, and vice versa.

It’s crucial to remember that technology tool's effectiveness depends on how well it’s used. When it comes to collaboration platforms, specifically forums, they can be incredibly powerful for enhancing internal communication if leveraged properly. In building digital communities, I’ve found that engaging users with thoughtful prompts can significantly boost participation. Here are a few strategies I’ve successfully used: 1) Encourage new member introductions. 2) Request member feedback to create a culture of continuous improvement. 3) Use leaderboards to spark friendly peer-to-peer competition. 4) Conduct polls to gather input and insights quickly. 5) Involve executives in discussions to increase leadership engagement.