What resources do remote team members need for successful collaborative problem solving?

1 Communication tools

One of the most important resources for remote collaborative problem solving is a set of communication tools that enable team members to share information, ideas, feedback, and emotions. Communication tools can range from email and chat to video conferencing and virtual whiteboards. The choice of communication tools depends on the purpose, frequency, and mode of communication that best suit the team's needs and preferences. For example, video conferencing can be useful for brainstorming sessions, while chat can be handy for quick updates and clarifications. Communication tools should be easy to use, reliable, and secure, and should support both synchronous and asynchronous communication.

2 Collaboration platforms

Another essential resource for remote collaborative problem solving is a collaboration platform that allows team members to work together on projects, tasks, and documents. Collaboration platforms can help remote teams organize their work, track their progress, assign roles and responsibilities, and manage deadlines and expectations. Collaboration platforms can also enable team members to co-create, edit, and review their outputs, as well as to integrate other tools and applications that they use. Collaboration platforms should be flexible, user-friendly, and compatible with the team's workflow and goals. Some examples of collaboration platforms are Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, and Asana.

3 Shared norms and expectations

A third resource for remote collaborative problem solving is a set of shared norms and expectations that guide the team's behavior, interactions, and performance. Shared norms and expectations can help remote teams establish trust, respect, and accountability among team members, as well as to align their vision, values, and objectives. Shared norms and expectations can cover aspects such as communication etiquette, feedback culture, decision making process, conflict resolution, and recognition and rewards. Shared norms and expectations should be co-created, communicated, and reviewed by the team regularly, and should be adaptable to changing circumstances and needs.

4 Learning opportunities

A fourth resource for remote collaborative problem solving is a variety of learning opportunities that enable team members to develop their skills, knowledge, and creativity. Learning opportunities can include formal training, coaching, mentoring, peer learning, online courses, webinars, podcasts, and books. Learning opportunities can help remote teams enhance their individual and collective competencies, as well as to discover new perspectives, insights, and solutions. Learning opportunities should be relevant, accessible, and engaging for the team members, and should encourage reflection, feedback, and application.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?