Intro
Those that work on the web, namely developers and even designers, can struggle to communicate effectively. This issue may come from many places, such as the increasingly virtual workforce or the fact that oftentimes, these careers are solo ones. If you’re a web developer or similar and are looking for ways to improve your communication, we’ve got the perfect list for you. Read on for the tips that can help you improve problem areas and work to become a successful, communicative web developer.
1. Set Up Regular Get-Togethers
Nobody wants to exclusively communicate with what feels like a brick wall. Instead, people want to know who they’re communicating with and that adds a layer of comfortability that makes project parts more likely to choose to communicate. Whatever your individual role is, urge colleagues and bosses to set up regular meetings that boost morality and comfort levels.
Remember not to force anyone to do anything they don’t want to as this can further strain communications. Instead, make everything fun and relaxed. Consider hybrid work models that call for a Friday office meetup complete with bagels and coffee.
Alternatively, plan a once-a-month all-expense paid fun night of bowling, axe throwing, or beer sampling to get people bonding. Knowing that colleagues are more than an empty screen makes a lot of difference in the inclination to communicate effectively.
2. A Productive Work Space
For in-office workspaces, it’s important to have a layout that promotes communication. Rather than having each person on a web development team housed in their own closed-off office, try an open approach. Think project tables with space for laptops and desktops and a number of chairs.
Or consider an office space that is open and airy, encouraging all employees to see and engage with one another on some level, even if mostly buried in their laptops. If you’re working virtually or have a hybrid schedule, consider providing a stipend for employees to help them pay for things like a laptop with a camera or a microphone so that they can engage in group work like a meeting at the beginning or end of the day to go over important updates.
3. Have a Proper Problem Reporting System
If you’re not big on encouraging communication through meetings and physical or virtual meetings, the alternative would be an online project management tool. There are plenty of options out there, not to mention that you can always use multiple in order to cover all your needs.
A communication/project platform is perfect for long-term projects or ones with many moving parts. Rather than having a long stream of emails with back-and-forth files, you can use your project organization system to manage those files and set tasks.
These platforms also permit an easier exchange process, like an automated task check-off for one person automatically kicks the subsequent task to the next person. Technology is monumental in any industry, but especially web development – use it to your advantage! Find top collaborative platforms here.
4. Micro Check-ins
Nobody likes to be micromanaged, but if approached correctly, setting up an effective check-in system can be impacftul. This can simply mean sending out emails at the end of every workday with an update on progress, or it can be more lenient, like an end-of-the week roundup on progress.
If you force any person into these check-ins against their will, it’s likely to not be as effective as if you make it known just how crucial being on the same page is. Furthermore, don’t require paragraphs or a check-sheet that someone has to annoyignly fill out constantly.
Allow employees, partners, and yourself to keep on top of the progress without being suffocating. There, you might express any concerns over small things like bugs that have arisen and are going to cause potential problems. Just be sure to stay on top of instances with a tool like BugHerd.
Conclusion
Web developers, like many virtually-focused industries, can struggle with effective communication. Luckily, there are plenty of methods to help you navigate your company’s needs, ensuring success. Whether it be an office layout change or enacting a robust technology platform for task checking or a mixture of the two, you can see positive changes when you work with your team’s personality and overall work culture. Just remember, nobody wants to have additional tedious tasks or to have to exert themselves for communication when they never had to before. Make it as easy as possible for colleagues and employees alike!
