What is Employee Communication Software
Employee communication software encompasses a collection of online tools specifically designed to enable seamless messaging, file sharing, and collaboration among team members within an organization. These applications are instrumental in keeping teams synchronized and productive, regardless of the geographical location or time zones of individual employees.
Employee communication software encompasses digital tools and applications designed to facilitate internal communication within companies. These platforms enable staff members to interact via instant messaging, text messaging (SMS), phone calls, or video calls. Additionally, they offer features such as group chat channels, file sharing, and automatic notifications to ensure timely dissemination of important information or updates to all employees.
By implementing a dedicated communication platform, organizations can streamline internal communication and enhance information flow. This improved communication fosters greater employee engagement and collaboration, leading to increased productivity levels. These benefits apply across various types of workforces, including office-based, hybrid, fully remote, field-based, or a combination thereof.
List of Top 13 Best Employee Communication Software Platforms Free of 2024: Free & Paid Options
In this article, I will present a concise list of the top 13 best internal employee communication software platforms, tools and solutions of 2024 that will be discussed.
- Workvivo
- Connecteam
- Monday.com
- Homebase
- Height
- Hub
- Workmates
- Staffbase
- SnapComms
- Happeo
- PeopleOne
- Homebase
- BlinkÂ
Overview of the 13 Best Employee Communication Software Platforms: Free & Paid
In order to assist you in selecting the optimal employee communication software, I have meticulously outlined my top 13 picks, providing thorough descriptions of each system along with the key features that set them apart. Additionally, I have included screenshots for each platform to offer a visual representation of their user interface, allowing you to gain insight into their design and usability.
Workvivo is a comprehensive employee experience app that aims to enhance engagement and foster emotional connections among employees, regardless of their location. Combining the functionalities of a modern intranet, engagement platform, and communications hub, Workvivo provides a unified social network experience.
The platform offers traditional communication features such as company news and event updates, along with SMS push notifications for critical communications to all staff. It also facilitates live video streams, enabling transparent leadership interactions through multimedia town hall meetings. Additionally, Workvivo supports hosting podcasts, which offer a deeper insight into corporate culture and have proven to drive higher engagement compared to traditional newsletters or emails.
To ensure seamless integration, Workvivo integrates with popular HR tools including payroll software, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
Workvivo offers customized pricing tailored to specific requirements, and you can request a free demo through their website to explore its features and functionalities firsthand.
Connecteam is a robust internal communication software specifically designed for HR professionals, employee managers, and business owners to effectively communicate, manage, onboard, and train non-desk employees and new hires, regardless of their location.
With support for mobile, desktop, and tablet devices, including kiosks, Connecteam caters to deskless and remote teams across various industries such as retail, restaurants, manufacturing, construction, field services, and healthcare. It offers a comprehensive set of features to facilitate communication and management of mobile workforces.
Connecteam includes a dedicated employee communication channel for targeted updates, team engagement features, surveys, polls, group and one-on-one chat functionality, a suggestion box for gathering employee feedback, a searchable company directory, organizational chat, training and onboarding capabilities, a company library, time management tools, digital forms and checklists, and quick task management.
Designed for out-of-office use and optimized for on-the-go accessibility, Connecteam is user-friendly, customizable, and quick to set up according to your organization’s needs.
Connecteam is available at a flat fee starting from $39 per month, and they offer a free 14-day trial for interested users. Additionally, a freemium plan with limited features is also available for those looking to explore the software before committing to a paid plan.
While primarily marketed as a workflow tool for scaling organizations, monday.com also incorporates several HR features, making it a valuable tool for internal communications and collaboration. Although not a pure HR software, it offers essential functionalities in these areas.
monday.com serves as an effective day-to-day workflow management tool for tasks such as deadlines, HR workflows, and resource tracking. It includes built-in communication features like commenting, approvals, @-tagging, notifications, alerts, customizable dashboards, a built-in inbox, social media-like ‘likes,’ and email integration.
To optimize employee communication, monday.com provides a ‘docs’ system where collaborative or read-only company manuals, checklists, or wikis can be created. Additionally, ‘request forms’ enable employees to easily report issues or share new ideas within the platform.
monday.com integrates with various project management apps, including Slack, Google Workspace, Gmail, Jira, GitHub, Trello, Dropbox, Typeform, and more. These integrations can be accessed through a paid plan with Zapier.
Pricing for monday.com starts from $8 per user per month, and they offer a free trial to explore its features and capabilities.Â
Homebase is a specialized employee management software designed specifically for small businesses with hourly workers. Alongside its scheduling, time tracking, payroll, and other HR tools, it also offers internal communication features.
With Homebase, users can take advantage of a built-in messenger tool that enables direct messaging to individuals or the entire organization. Users can create groups based on projects, job functions, seniority, or shift schedules for effective team communication.
The messenger tool facilitates file sharing, allowing teams and individuals to share documents, files, and images. Team leaders and managers can leave specific notes for employees and team members, and the software can be utilized for sharing feedback as well.
Homebase offers various team communication features, including team announcements and shout-outs, shift notes, employee feedback, data and analytics, automated reminders and notifications, and file sharing and storage.
Pricing for Homebase starts at $20 per month, and they also provide a freemium plan for teams with up to 20 employees, allowing users to explore the software’s capabilities.
Height is a project management software that focuses on supporting internal communication within teams for effective collaboration and teamwork. It provides features to create project plans, assign tasks and sub-tasks, and track progress using various views such as spreadsheets, calendars, Gantt charts, or Kanban boards.
Each team member has a personalized inbox that offers an overview of their assigned tasks, relevant notifications, and any unfinished drafts requiring attention. Users can also create private tasks with access controls to maintain privacy.
Customizable notifications ensure that users receive relevant updates without cluttering their inbox. Real-time collaboration is facilitated through live messaging, offering features like reaction emojis, mentions, replies, typing and read indicators. Media files such as videos, images, and GIFs can be shared, and code highlighting is available for separating code text in messages.
Height integrates with various tools including Discord, Fivetran, GitHub & GitLab, Google Sheets, Notion, Sentry, Slab, Slack, and Zendesk. Additional integrations can be accessed with a paid Zapier account. Paid plans for Height start from $8.50 per user per month, and a 30-day free trial is available for users to explore its features.=
Hub is a comprehensive workplace intranet platform designed to enhance employee engagement and streamline internal communications. With a range of features including polls, surveys, messaging, and recognition tools, Hub enables businesses to create and distribute messages efficiently while tracking their impact. Content can be managed and distributed across various channels such as mobile devices, desktop computers, and tablets.
The platform’s document management capabilities, employee profiles, and group calendars are hosted on the Google cloud. Messages can be customized and sent to specific user accounts or targeted groups based on various criteria such as role, location, or language preferences. Detailed analytics provide insights into user engagement metrics like views, clicks, shares, and likes, allowing companies to optimize their internal communication strategies based on audience preferences. Data related to usage metrics can also be exported for further analysis or reporting purposes.
Hub integrates seamlessly with popular tools such as Gmail, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Microsoft Outlook, and SharePoint. Additionally, users can customize their employee interface by embedding RSS feeds and widgets.
Pricing for Hub is available upon request, and interested users can request a free demo through the website to explore its capabilities.
Workmates, developed by HR Cloud, is a powerful employee engagement platform designed to foster collaboration and communication across departments. It offers a built-in organizational chart and customizable communication channels to facilitate seamless cross-departmental collaboration. The platform features a content management system (CMS) that simplifies the management and sharing of company information. Important announcements can be pushed to segmented audience lists and flagged as mandatory reads for enhanced visibility.
One of the standout features of Workmates is its individualized newsfeeds, employee profiles, event and calendar notifications, and messaging and chat capabilities, all of which contribute to creating a connected and engaged workforce. The platform allows you to tailor its functionality to meet your specific needs, whether you choose to focus on rewards and recognition or adopt a more comprehensive approach to internal communication and security using their workplace intranet.
Workmates also offers support for setting up an enterprise social network platform where colleagues can connect, share news and updates, and recognize high-performing individuals. The platform is accessible across all devices, either through a web browser or via their dedicated iOS and Android apps, ensuring that employees can stay connected regardless of their preferred device.
In terms of integrations, Workmates seamlessly integrates with a wide range of tools including Staffbase, ADP, Quickbooks, Ultipro, SAP, LEVER, Compas, Greenhouse, JazzHR, Workable, TalentLyft, Smart Recruiters, Checkr, Indeed, Ziprecruiter, Glassdoor, Slack, Twilio, and more.
Workmates offers flexible pricing starting from $3.50 per employee per month, and a free demo is available for those interested in exploring its features and capabilities.
Staffbase is a comprehensive internal communications platform that aims to address the challenges of connecting diverse teams across multiple locations. It offers an end-to-end solution for distributing important content to employees throughout an entire organization.
With the Staffbase Experience Studio, editors have the ability to plan, create, and publish content, while also being able to measure its impact. Distributed editors can easily add localized content without the need for technical skills, making content creation and distribution efficient and accessible.
Staffbase prioritizes mobile functionality, providing a mobile-first solution that optimizes effective internal communication within larger distributed organizations. The employee mobile app seamlessly integrates with company intranet software, enabling company-wide communication. This ensures that frontline team members receive the fast response they need, while management gains valuable insights and reporting capabilities.
In terms of integrations, Staffbase offers compatibility with Microsoft 365, major HR applications, and other SaaS software, allowing for seamless connectivity with existing tools and systems.
Pricing for Staffbase starts at $88 per user per month, and a free demo option is available for those interested in exploring the platform’s features and capabilities.
SnapComms is an employee communication solution that combines workplace communications and employee engagement into a unified platform. Their software utilizes visual displays in prominent locations to deliver key information and updates to teams, bypassing the need for email.
With their branded app, accessible on any device including mobile phones, tablets, and desktops, SnapComms ensures that remote employees stay informed and connected to the broader organization.
SnapComms integrates seamlessly with popular communication tools such as Slack and Google Workspace, enabling smooth collaboration across different platforms.
Pricing for SnapComms starts from $2 per user per month, offering affordability for organizations of all sizes. Additionally, they provide a 30-day free trial with no credit card required, allowing users to experience the software’s features before making a commitment.
Happeo is a dynamic and collaborative social intranet designed specifically for businesses that utilize Google Workspace. By combining the features of a social network and a team collaboration platform, Happeo enhances employee engagement, facilitates two-way communication, and streamlines workflows.
The focal point of employee communication in Happeo is the Channels, which serve as digital workplaces where team members can connect, interact, and collaborate. Within these Channels, users can securely post messages, share initiatives, and engage with content through likes and interactions.
Happeo integrates seamlessly with popular tools such as Google Workspace, Trello, Slack, and Salesforce, enabling users to leverage their existing tech stack for enhanced productivity and collaboration.
Pricing for Happeo is available upon request and is tailored to the specific needs of each organization. Unfortunately, there is no free trial option mentioned on their website.
PeopleOne is a comprehensive employee communication and engagement platform designed to enhance internal communications within organizations. It comes equipped with predefined features tailored for HR, IT, facilities, and business teams, facilitating the delivery of personalized news, holiday calendars, wellness information, events, and leadership communications. The software ensures clear ownership of content creation, permissions, and approval mechanisms, contributing to efficient operation.
This solution is particularly suitable for corporate communications, offering customizable workflows to streamline organizational processes. Leveraging Microsoft Office 365’s SharePoint integration, PeopleOne enables the distribution of corporate news, events, and announcements, while its document management system provides access to processes, policies, and procedures. Leaders can utilize the software to connect with employees and share information, thoughts, and insights effectively.
PeopleOne allows for corporate branding customization, including colors, logos, and themes, fostering a sense of association with the organization among employees. Additionally, built-in themes for various occasions and festivals add a touch of holiday cheer to the platform.
With pre-built integrations with major email and messaging platforms, Office 365, and social media networks like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, PeopleOne ensures seamless connectivity. Moreover, its iOS and Android app empowers teams to communicate, collaborate, and engage effortlessly, regardless of location or time.
Customized pricing options are available upon request, along with a free demo, allowing organizations to explore the platform’s features and benefits before making a commitment.Â
Homebase is an employee management software designed specifically for small businesses employing hourly workers. It offers a comprehensive suite of internal communication tools, scheduling, time tracking, payroll management, and other HR features. The platform includes a built-in messenger tool that allows users to send direct messages to individuals or the entire organization. Additionally, users have the ability to create groups for specific projects, job functions, seniority levels, or shift schedules.
Within the messenger tool, teams and individual staff members can share documents, files, and images, fostering collaboration and information sharing. Team leaders and managers can leave specific notes for employees and team members, facilitating communication and task management. The software also enables the sharing of feedback among team members.
Key features of Homebase’s team communication functionality include team announcements and shout-outs, shift notes and employee feedback, data analytics, automated reminders and notifications, and file sharing and storage capabilities. These features are designed to streamline communication processes, enhance collaboration, and improve overall efficiency within the organization.Â
Blink is a versatile employee communication software compatible with desktop computers, tablets, and mobile devices. It boasts an extensive employee directory containing profile pictures, job titles, departments, locations, skills, and contact details, facilitating the establishment of professional relationships and engagement.
A notable feature of Blink is its workplace analytics functionality, enabling users to evaluate the effectiveness of internal communication methods based on metrics such as views, likes, comments, and reach. This analysis aids in identifying successful communication strategies and areas requiring improvement.
Ideal for organizations with remote or field employees, Blink allows seamless publishing of updates, news, and schedules accessible on employees’ mobile devices, ensuring alignment across the workforce. Its Teams feature enables private communication among team members working on sensitive projects, with the ability to share files and documents restricted to authorized personnel.
Furthermore, Blink supports rich media integration, allowing users to embed videos, images, audios, newsletters, and blog posts into feeds. This multi-faceted approach enhances employee communication and makes content more visually engaging.
Team Communication Software: 4 Comparison Criteria Must Watch
Curious about how I chose the top employee communication software for this list? Let me walk you through my process. I began by compiling a comprehensive list of employee communication systems using recent market data and favorable user ratings. Next, I delved into the specifics of each system to compare their features.
Here’s a summary of the key features I assessed during my evaluation:
Internal Employee Communication Software: 8 Key Features
When finalizing my selections for the best cloud-based employee communication software, I thoroughly assessed the following key features:
- Instant Messaging: Essential for real-time communication, allowing team members to interact individually or in groups.
- Notifications: Clear notifications ensure employees are alerted promptly to relevant messages.
- File Sharing: Enables seamless distribution of files from the cloud or local devices.
- Status Updates: Allows team members to indicate their current availability.
- Activity Feed: Keeps employees informed of messages directed to them personally or within their groups.
- Search Functionality: Users should be able to quickly search for and retrieve old messages using keywords.
- Surveys and Polls: Interactive tools facilitate gathering opinions and making informed team decisions.
- Knowledge Base: Access to a company-wide knowledge base reduces redundant inquiries and accelerates information retrieval.
In addition to these features, I considered the following factors:
- User Interface: A clean and intuitive UI is crucial for widespread adoption among employees of all levels and departments.
- Usability: Software must be easy to use both in-office and on-the-go, with effective onboarding, training, and support for users at all levels.
- Software Integrations: Seamless integration with productivity and collaboration tools ensures enhanced workflow efficiency.
- Value for Price: Pricing should be reasonable and transparent, catering to the needs of both small and large organizations while providing clear value for money.Â
What Are The Employee Communication Apps Better Than Email?
Employee communication apps offer a number of advantages over email, including:
- Real-time communication:Â Employees can communicate with each other immediately, which can be more efficient and effective.
- Collaboration tools:Â Apps often include features that make it easier for employees to work together on projects.
- Segmented communication:Â Apps can be used to target messages to specific groups of employees.
- Mobile accessibility:Â Employees can stay connected even when they are not at their desks.
Employee communication apps can help to improve communication speed, efficiency, collaboration, and employee engagement.
What Are The Best Free Employee Communication Platforms?
Ensuring effective employee communication doesn’t necessarily require significant investment, as there are numerous excellent free options available. Smaller organizations can effectively manage communication using basic Google tools such as Gmail, Hangouts, and Meet.
Microsoft-centric companies may opt for Outlook and Skype to maintain consistency within their platform. Additionally, for video communications, Zoom is user-friendly and offers meetings of up to 40 minutes in duration on its basic free plan.Â
What Do You Think About These Employee Communication Tools?
The current landscape of internal communication tools offers a diverse range of options, each with its own strengths and features. While some tools may fulfill most communication needs, there is always room for innovation and the possibility of a “killer app” that encompasses all desired functionalities.
We don’t have a specific team or use specific software for communication. However, organizations and teams may utilize multiple apps depending on their specific requirements and preferences. The choice of communication tools often depends on factors such as the nature of the work, team size, collaboration needs, and individual preferences.
Feel free to share your thoughts on the current state of internal communication tools and whether you believe there is still room for improvement. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest advancements in employee communication software and other related developments.
Final Words
Are current internal communication tools meeting all your needs, or are we still waiting for the ultimate ‘killer app’ to emerge? Is your team relying on a single software platform, or are you communicating across multiple apps?
Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments in employee communication software and beyond.
What are Some FAQs of Employee Communication Software Tools
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about employee communication software tools:
Employee communication software refers to a suite of digital tools designed to facilitate communication and collaboration within an organization. It includes features such as instant messaging, file sharing, team collaboration spaces, and integration with other productivity tools.
Employee communication software offers several benefits, including improved internal communication, enhanced collaboration and teamwork, increased employee engagement, streamlined information sharing, centralized communication channels, and better access to critical information.
Employee communication software tools typically operate through web-based or mobile applications. They provide a platform for employees to connect, communicate, and share information through features like chat, discussion boards, file sharing, notifications, and integrations with other tools or systems.
The specific features you should look for depend on your organization's needs, but some common features to consider include real-time messaging, file sharing capabilities, team collaboration spaces, integration with productivity tools, mobile accessibility, search functionality, and analytics/reporting features.
Security is an important consideration when choosing employee communication software. Look for tools that offer data encryption, access controls, user authentication, and compliance with relevant data privacy regulations. Review the software provider's security policies and ensure they have robust measures in place to protect your sensitive information.
Many employee communication software tools offer integrations with popular productivity tools, such as project management software, document collaboration platforms, and calendar applications. Before selecting a tool, check its compatibility with the other tools your organization relies on to ensure smooth workflow integration.
To encourage high adoption, provide comprehensive training to employees, highlight the benefits of the software, and address any concerns or resistance. Engage employees in the decision-making process, communicate the purpose and value of the tool, and provide ongoing support and resources for effective usage.
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