A digital online whiteboard is a tool used to create, collaborate, and share ideas. It’s essentially a dry-erase board that you can access from any computer with an internet connection. Though it has been around for more than 20 years, the online whiteboard is still gaining popularity in the modern business world. These days, many companies are moving away from desktop software and switching to cloud-based programs. Here we will provide an overview of virtual whiteboards and explain how they can be used as part of your company’s online collaboration strategy.
What is an Online Whiteboard?
A virtual, or online, whiteboard is a software tool that allows users to create, collaborate, and share ideas online. These tools are often integrated with other business software such as project management, CRM, and video conferencing tools. Virtual whiteboards are ideal for team collaboration because they can be accessed from any computer with an internet connection. They can be used to share images, create visual ideas, track project progress, schedule meetings, and discuss tasks. Virtual whiteboards are often used in conjunction with other online collaboration tools such as online meeting software, project management software, and cloud storage services. Digital whiteboards increase employee collaboration and help companies save time and money by minimizing travel costs and automating manual processes.
Types of Online Whiteboards
There are two main types of online whiteboards: shared and virtual. A shared whiteboard is an online space that allows multiple people to collaborate at once. Users can create images, collaborate on documents, assign tasks, and leave comments on the board. A virtual whiteboard provides the same features as a shared whiteboard and can be accessed by one individual at a time. It also contains a virtual pen interface that replicates the experience of using a real whiteboard. Users can draw images, create sticky notes, and collaborate with team members by adding comments.
Benefits of Using an Online Whiteboard
- Easy collaboration - A virtual whiteboard is a great way to simplify collaboration with employees, clients, and partners. When everyone is on the same page, it’s much easier to work together efficiently and effectively.
- No travel - If you’ve ever been to a meeting with people from other cities or countries, you know how difficult it can be to schedule times that work for everyone. An online whiteboard can help you easily collaborate with those in other locations without having to worry about travel.
- Streamlined communication - With an online whiteboard, there’s no need to send emails back and forth — everything is in one place. This can help keep communication streamlined and make it easier to keep track of important tasks.
- Increased visibility - When projects are spread out over many different documents and tools, it can be hard to keep track of what’s going on. With an online whiteboard, everything is in one place and can be easily monitored.
- Reduced paper waste - If you’re still using paper to manage projects and communicate with team members, it’s time to make the switch to an online whiteboard. Digital tools help you avoid printing unnecessary documents and can even be integrated with digital note taking apps.
- Better collaboration with clients and vendors - If you work with clients and vendors regularly, a digital whiteboard can make it easier to collaborate. You can create a virtual space for all parties to share ideas, store files, and track project progress.
How to Choose the Right Online Whiteboard for Your Business?
When choosing the best online whiteboard for your company, there are a few factors to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to consider the type of online whiteboard you want. Do you want a shared or virtual whiteboard? You should also consider the features and functionalities of each type. There are many different online whiteboard tools to choose from. Before you make a decision, you should consider how each tool will fit into your company’s existing business software and processes. Keep in mind that an online whiteboard is only as good as the company hosting it. You should look for a company that offers a high-quality service and has experience in the industry.
How to Increase Collaboration with an Online Whiteboard
If you’ve decided to switch to an online whiteboard, there are a few things you can do to increase collaboration.
- Define your purpose - First, you’ll need to clearly define your purpose for using the whiteboard. What are you hoping to accomplish with the tool? Once you have a clear purpose, it will be much easier to select the best whiteboard for your needs.
- Create a meeting culture - Perhaps one of the best ways to increase collaboration with your online whiteboard is to create a meeting culture. Meetings are often the subject of criticism, but they don’t have to be! If you have an online whiteboard, you have all the tools you need to create a productive and efficient meeting culture.
- Use visual cues - Using visual cues will help remind team members how to effectively use the whiteboard. You could create a visual cue guide that explains best practices for using the whiteboard and pin it to the top of your virtual space.
Getting the Best Results
When used properly, an online whiteboard can help you increase collaboration, improve communication, and simplify project management. For best results, take the time to choose the right whiteboard for your company. You’ll want to consider the type of whiteboard, its features, and any extra tools that come with it. When used properly, an online whiteboard can help you increase collaboration, improve communication, and simplify project management. For best results, take the time to choose the right whiteboard for your company.