A list of teleworking resources for Alabama businesses, employees

Guidelines from the CDC and the Alabama Department of Public Health related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic now recommend social distancing and limiting gatherings of people in one place, and businesses small and large are not immune.

While the ability to simultaneously conduct business operations and follow these guidelines will vary by industry and company, all non-essential employees are generally being urged to work from home if at all possible — commonly known as telecommuting or teleworking.

To help Alabama businesses and employees in this new environment, Yellowhammer News has put together the following compilation of teleworking resources.

1). Slack

Slack is a desktop and mobile platform that provides instant messaging, group messaging and “channels” that organize conversations surrounding particular topics that are useful for your company. You can easily share files and even your screen with coworkers. Slack users enjoy a more streamlined way to send, search and view messages, which frees up email clutter.

Read more here or watch a webinar about Slack especially related to teleworking.

2). Trello

Trello provides a visually engaging way for companies to organize, manage and collaborate on projects. Trello’s boards, lists and cards enable users to prioritize projects in “a fun, flexible, and rewarding way.” Users can seamlessly update project milestones, add comments and checklists, upload files and more. Teams can remotely ensure deadlines are met and project details are being worked on. Trello works in real-time, meaning any changes made by team members are instantly updated on all users’ screens instantly.

3). Skype/Microsoft Teams

Skype quickly connects you to others via video calls, phone calls or chat functions. Skype also offers mobile features, which allow for conducting business calls on the iPhone or Android Skype app. For businesses, Microsoft Teams has now replaced the former Skype for Business. The company is offering the product free initially. Read more here.

4). Brain.fm

Brain.fm built to help you be more productive through tailored music scientifically designed music to get you in the zone faster and keep you focused. Simply put, the service boosts productivity through music. “Just as the visual design of an office or bedroom should enhance its function, the music you listen to should support your goals as well. Think of Brain.fm as interior design for your mind!”

5). SelfControl

SelfControl can completely block websites while you work. Simply enter apps and/or sites to your blacklist, and you will no longer be distracted by them. The tool is free, easy to use and can increase productivity.

6). Zoom

Need a pure video conferencing tool? Zoom is for you. The service is simple, reliable and also offers call-in options via telephone.

7). TimeDoctor

TimeDoctor is a tool that offers varying levels of intrusiveness when it comes to tracking how remote employees are spending their time on the job. The service can be customized differently for each individual employee, offering a seemingly endless suite of options. Individuals can also use the service to manage their own time more efficiently.

Did we miss any great teleworking resources? Email sean@new-yhn.local with your recommendations.

Need more general business resources as Alabama deals with the coronavirus pandemic?

The Business Council of Alabama has created the landing page for you. Click here for the latest resources and information for job creators.

For updated coronavirus information, all Alabamians should continue to monitor the Alabama Department of Public Health’s website here and the CDC’s website here.

Additionally, major cities in Alabama such as Montgomery, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, Auburn and Dothan have created landing pages with their latest news on the coronavirus.

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn