10+ Best Communication Software (2024)

Did you know that effective communication can boost productivity by up to 25%? 

The art of communication lies in perfect timing, doesn’t it? Manually it might be hard to hold on to the right time but technically it is.

With remote work becoming more common, the right communication software can make or break your organization’s productivity and collaboration efforts. 

Without further ado, here are the 14 best communication software tools available in 2024.

Importance of Communication Software

Communication software has become indispensable in modern workplaces. Here’s why:

• Streamlines collaboration: 

You know how frustrating it can be to work with people scattered all over the place. Communication software makes that so much easier. It doesn’t matter if your colleague is next door or on the other side of the world. These tools help you collaborate as if you’re in the same room.

• Increases productivity: 

People are increasingly focused on enhancing productivity, and that’s precisely what communication software facilitates. It helps cut down on those endless email chains and time-consuming meetings. With the right tools, you can power through your to-do list much faster. 

• Improves transparency:

Ever felt left out of important updates? With the right communication software in hand, everyone gets updated. This keeps you on the same page as your team.

• Enhances flexibility: 

These tools are perfect for how you work now. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or mixing it up, communication software has you covered. It’s all about working in a way that suits you best.

• Centralizes information: 

Removes the tiresome work of searching through scattered documents or messages. Communication software creates a central hub for all important information, making it easy to find what you need when you need it.

Types of Communication Software

Before diving into specific tools, let’s briefly explore the main types of communication software:

• Instant messaging:

Ideal for quick, informal exchanges, instant messaging platforms facilitate real-time text-based communication. They often include features like group chats and file sharing.

• Video conferencing:

For face-to-face interactions without the need for physical proximity, video conferencing software enables virtual meetings. These platforms typically offer screen-sharing and recording capabilities.

• Project management:

Designed to keep teams organized and on track, project management tools help manage tasks, deadlines, and workflows. They often incorporate features like Gantt charts and Kanban boards.

• File sharing:

Centralized document storage and collaboration are the core functions of file-sharing software. Version control and real-time editing are essential features for maintaining information integrity.

• Team collaboration:

It combines multiple communication features into a single platform. As a result, it integrates channels, file storage, and task management.

14 Best Communication Software Tools

Let’s dive into the 14 best communication software tools that can seriously upgrade how you connect and collaborate. Check them out to find the one that fits your needs perfectly!

1. Microsoft Teams

Pricing

Free Plan: $0 per month

Essentials: $4/user/month

Business Basic: $6/user/month

Business Standard: $12.50/user/month

Why it can be your best choice: If you’re on the hunt for a versatile communication and collaboration tool, Microsoft Teams might just be your perfect match. It seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft 365 suite, making it easy to share files, schedule meetings, and collaborate in real time. Whether you’re working from home or in the office, Teams offers a unified platform to keep your team connected and productive. Its user-friendly interface, robust security features, and flexibility cater to both small teams and large enterprises. Give it a try, and you’ll see how it simplifies your workflow and enhances team collaboration.

Key features

• Team Channels: Organize conversations by topics, projects, or departments
• Integrated Office 365 Apps: Direct access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more
• Video Conferencing: Host high-quality video meetings with up to 10,000 participants
• File Sharing and Collaboration: Share, edit, and collaborate on files in real-time
• Chat and Messaging: Persistent, threaded conversations for better communication
• Security and Compliance: Enterprise-level security with compliance with industry standards
• Customization and Integration: Integrates with a wide range of apps and services

Advantages	Disadvantages
Offers seamless integration with Microsoft 365	Full features require a Microsoft 365 subscription
Provides high-quality video and audio calls	Older devices may struggle with resource demands
Includes comprehensive collaboration tools	New users face a learning curve
Features strong security and compliance measures	Users occasionally experience connectivity issues
Allows customization and scalability for all organization sizes	Additional costs apply to certain features

 

2. Google Meet

Pricing

Business Starter: $6 per user per month

Business Standard: $12 per user per month

Business Plus: $18 per user per month

Enterprise: Contact sales for pricing

Why it can be your best choice: Google Workspace can be your ideal solution for a seamless and integrated work environment. With its comprehensive suite of tools, it caters to businesses of all sizes, offering reliability and ease of use. The pricing is competitive, and the robust features ensure you can collaborate, communicate, and manage your work effortlessly. Plus, the scalability means you can grow without worrying about outgrowing your tools.

Key features

• Gmail and Calendar: Efficient communication and scheduling
• Google Drive: Secure storage and easy sharing of files
• Google Meet: High-quality video meetings and conferencing
• Docs, Sheets, Slides: Collaborative editing and creation of documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Security and Management: Advanced security settings and admin controls
• 24/7 Support: Access to round-the-clock customer support

Advantages	Disadvantages
User-friendly and intuitive interface	Business Plus and Enterprise can be pricey for small businesses
Seamless integration with other Google services	Learning curve for users new to Google tools
Scalable solutions for growing businesses	Limited customization options in lower tiers
Robust security features	Dependence on Internet connectivity
24/7 customer support	Potential data privacy concerns
Frequent updates and new features	Occasional compatibility issues with non-Google products

3. Slack

Pricing

Free: $0 per user per month

Pro: $7.25 per user per month

Business+: $12.50 per user per month

Enterprise Grid: Contact sales for pricing

Why it can be your best choice: Slack is perfect for teams that prioritize quick, organized communication and want to reduce email clutter. Its channel-based structure and powerful search functionality make it an excellent tool for teams looking to improve their internal communication efficiency and create a more collaborative work environment.

Key features:

• Channel-based messaging allows teams to organize conversations by topic, project, or department for streamlined communication.
• Thread discussions that keep conversations organized and easy to follow, reducing clutter in main channels.
• File sharing capabilities that enable quick and easy sharing of documents, images, and other files within conversations.
• Extensive app integrations that allow teams to connect Slack with various other tools they use, creating a central hub for work.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Intuitive user interface	Can become noisy with too many channels
Powerful search functionality	Limited video conferencing capabilities
Customizable notifications

4. Connecteam

Pricing

Free Plan: $0 per user/month

Basic Plan: $29/month for up to 30 users, then $0.50 per additional user

Advanced Plan: $49/month for up to 30 users, then $1.50 per additional user

Expert Plan: $99/month for up to 30 users, then $3 per additional user

Why it can be your best choice: Connecteam is your best choice because it offers a versatile and user-friendly platform that streamlines employee management. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, its scalable pricing and comprehensive features adapt to your needs. The intuitive interface ensures you can easily navigate and utilize the app without a steep learning curve. Plus, the mobile-first approach means your team can stay connected and productive from anywhere. If you’re looking for a cost-effective and efficient solution to manage your workforce, Connecteam fits the bill perfectly.

Key features:

• Time Tracking: Simplifies attendance management and payroll processing
• Task Management: Ensures tasks are assigned and completed efficiently
• Communication Tools: Facilitates real-time communication across the team
• Training and Onboarding: Provides a seamless onboarding process for new hires
• HR Management: Centralizes employee information and HR processes
• Operations Management: Streamlines day-to-day operations and workflows

Advantages	Disadvantages
Offers affordable plans for small businesses	Higher-tier plans can become expensive
Employs a mobile-first approach to design	Provides limited customization options
Includes a comprehensive set of features	May overwhelm very small teams with its complexity
Presents a user-friendly interface	Advanced features require additional training to master
Provides excellent customer support	Users occasionally encounter app bugs

5. Workvivo

Pricing

Starter Plan: $4 per user per month

Business Plan: $6 per user per month

Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing

Why it can be your best choice: Workvivo is ideal for organizations looking to boost employee engagement and create a strong company culture. Workvivo can be your right fit because it offers a user-friendly interface that employees will love. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing tools, making the transition smooth and hassle-free. Plus, the scalable plans ensure you only pay for what you need, growing with your business.

Key features:

• Newsfeed: Keeps everyone updated with company news and announcements
• Recognition & Rewards: Encourages a culture of appreciation and motivation
• Social Intranet: Provides a central hub for all company information and resources
• Analytics & Insights: Offers valuable data on employee engagement and communication effectiveness
• Mobile App: Ensures employees can stay connected on the go

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to use and navigate	Custom pricing for Enterprise Plan
Enhances employee engagement	It may require time for full employee adoption
Integrates with existing tools	Higher costs for larger organizations
Scalable plans to fit your needs	Limited features in the Starter Plan
Mobile app for on-the-go access

 

6. Dropbox

Pricing

Dropbox Plus: $9.99/month (billed yearly) or $11.99/month (billed monthly)

Dropbox Family: $16.99/month (billed yearly) or $19.99/month (billed monthly)

Dropbox Professional: $16.58/month (billed yearly) or $19.99/month (billed monthly)

Dropbox Standard for Teams: $15/user/month (billed yearly)

Dropbox Advanced for Teams: $24/user/month (billed yearly)

Dropbox Enterprise: Custom pricing

Why it can be your best choice: If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile cloud storage solution, Dropbox might just be your perfect fit. It’s designed to seamlessly integrate into your daily workflow, making file storage, sharing, and collaboration a breeze. With Dropbox, you can access your files from any device, ensuring that your important documents are always at your fingertips. Plus, the variety of plans available means there’s a solution tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you’re an individual, a family, or a large team.

Key features:

• File Storage and Sync: Automatically syncs your files across devices, ensuring you always have the latest version
• File Sharing: Easily share files and folders with others, even if they don’t have a Dropbox account
• Collaboration Tools: Tools like Dropbox Paper and real-time document editing facilitate smooth collaboration
• File Recovery and Versioning: Recover deleted files and access previous versions of documents
• Smart Sync: Saves space on your hard drive by allowing you to access files stored only in the cloud
• Security: Provides advanced security features like two-factor authentication and encryption

Advantages	Disadvantages
Boasts a user-friendly interface for easy navigation	Costs more than some competing services
Integrates smoothly with various apps and services	Basic plans offer limited storage capacity
Offers powerful tools for collaboration and file sharing	Offline access requires downloading files
Implements robust security measures to protect data	Premium features are restricted to higher-tier plans
Provides flexible plans to suit diverse user requirements	Enterprise-level pricing requires custom quotes

 

7. Zoom

Pricing

Basic: Free

Pro: $149.90/year per user

Business: $199.90/year per user

Zoom One: $250/year per user

Enterprise: Custom pricing

Why it can be your best choice:  Zoom offers a variety of plans to fit different needs, from small teams to large enterprises. With its user-friendly interface and reliable performance, Zoom ensures smooth communication for businesses and individuals. The flexibility in pricing allows you to choose a plan that aligns with your specific requirements, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.

Key features:

• HD Video and Audio: Enjoy high-quality video and audio calls
• Screen Sharing: Share your screen with participants for better collaboration
• Virtual Backgrounds: Customize your meeting backgrounds for a professional look
• Recording: Record meetings for future reference and sharing
• Breakout Rooms: Split meetings into separate sessions for focused discussions
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with calendar and other productivity tools

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to use with a user-friendly interface	Can be expensive for small businesses
Reliable performance with minimal downtime	Occasional security concerns
Flexible pricing plans for different needs	Some advanced features need higher-tier plans
Wide range of features for effective collaboration	Requires a stable internet connection
Excellent video and audio quality	Limited functionality in the free plan

 

8. Skype

Pricing

$7.99 per month for unlimited calls to landlines and mobiles.

Why it can be your best choice: Looking for a hassle-free way to stay connected? This Skype plan is your go-to option. Imagine unlimited calls to anyone in the US without worrying about running out of minutes. It’s perfect for both personal and professional use, giving you the freedom to chat as long as you want. Plus, at just $7.99 a month, it’s a steal compared to traditional phone plans. Give it a try and keep those conversations flowing effortlessly.

Key features:

• Unlimited Calls: Make unlimited calls to landlines and mobiles in the US
• Affordable Pricing: Only $7.99 per month
• Ease of Use: Simple to set up and use on any device
• Flexibility: Cancel anytime without any hidden fees
• High Quality: Enjoy crystal clear call quality

Advantages	Disadvantages
Unlimited calls to US numbers	Limited to US calling only
Affordable monthly rate	Requires internet connection
Easy setup and usage	No international calls are included
High call quality	Subscription-based service
Flexible cancellation policy

9. Trello

Pricing

Free: $0

Standard: $5 per user/month

Premium: $10 per user/month

Enterprise: $17.50 per user/month

Why it can be your best choice: Trello is your go-to tool for managing projects and collaborating with your team. It’s versatile, easy to use, and can scale with your needs. Whether you’re organizing personal tasks or coordinating complex projects, Trello has got you covered. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes planning and tracking a breeze. Plus, with various integrations, you can customize Trello to fit perfectly into your workflow. It’s all about making your life easier and your team more productive.

Key features:

• Boards, Lists, and Cards: Organize your projects visually, making it easy to see the big picture and dive into the details
• Unlimited Cards: Create as many tasks and projects as you need without any limitations
• Custom Backgrounds & Stickers: Personalize your boards to make them visually appealing and fun
• Advanced Checklists: Break down tasks into smaller steps with due dates, so nothing slips through the cracks
• File Attachments: Attach files up to 250MB to cards, keeping all your project materials in one place
• Integrations: Connect Trello with other apps like Slack, Google Drive, and Jira to streamline your workflow
• Automation: Use Butler to automate repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing errors

Advantages	Disadvantages
User-friendly interface	Limited advanced features on the free plan
Highly customizable	Premium plans can be expensive for large teams
Strong collaboration tools	Lacks some advanced project management features
Extensive integration options	Learning curve for advanced features
Mobile-friendly	Limited offline access
Effective task management	Basic reporting tools

 

10. Jira

Pricing

Free: $0 (up to 10 users)

Standard: $7.75/user/month

Premium: $15.25/user/month

Enterprise: Contact Sales for pricing

Why it can be your best choice: If you’re looking for a tool that seamlessly blends project management with agile development, Jira might just be the perfect fit. It’s designed to cater to teams of all sizes, providing a range of features that can adapt to your specific needs. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, Jira offers scalable solutions that grow with your business. Plus, its integration capabilities and customization options make it incredibly versatile. Give it a try and see how it can streamline your workflows and enhance productivity.

Key features:

• Customizable Workflows – Tailor workflows to fit your team’s unique processes
• Real-time Reporting – Access detailed reports for better project insights and decision-making
• Agile Boards – Utilize Scrum and Kanban boards for efficient project management
• Integration with Dev Tools – Seamlessly integrate with tools like Bitbucket and GitHub
• Advanced Roadmaps – Plan and track progress across multiple teams and projects
• Automation – Automate repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors

Advantages	Disadvantages
Customizable to fit various team needs	Learning curve for new users
Robust integration capabilities	Higher cost for premium features
Strong agile and DevOps support	Some features may require additional plugins
Real-time collaboration and reporting	It can be complex for simple project management
Scalable solutions for teams of all sizes	Initial setup and configuration can be time-consuming

 

11. RingCentral

Pricing

Core: $20 per user/month

Advanced: $25 per user/month

Ultra: $35 per user/month

Why it can be your best choice: Looking for a reliable communication solution for your business? RingCentral could be your perfect fit. It’s designed to streamline your operations, making it easier for your team to stay connected and productive. With flexible pricing plans, you can find the right fit for your business size and needs. Plus, the robust features ensure you have everything you need for seamless communication and collaboration.

Key features:

• Unlimited Calling: Talk as much as you want without worrying about extra charges
• Video Conferencing: Hold meetings with up to 100 participants
• Team Messaging: Keep all team communications in one place
• Integrations: Connect with popular tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and more
• Mobile Apps: Stay connected on the go with iOS and Android apps
• Auto-Receptionist: Manage calls efficiently with customizable greetings and call routing
• Call Management: Handle calls with advanced call management features like call forwarding, call screening, and voicemail-to-email.
• Reporting and Analytics: Get insights into your team’s communication patterns and performance

Advantages	Disadvantages
The platform offers a user-friendly interface	Higher-tier plans can be pricey for small businesses
It provides comprehensive features for various needs	There is a learning curve for mastering advanced features
The system is reliable and secure	Some integrations come with an additional cost
The plans are scalable to accommodate growth	Optimal performance requires a stable internet connection
The company provides excellent customer support	The Essentials plan has limited features compared to higher tiers

 

12. Monday.com

Pricing

Individual: Free

Basic: $8 per seat/month

Standard: $10 per seat/month

Pro: $16 per seat/month

Enterprise: Contact sales for pricing

Why it can be your best choice: If you’re looking for a project management tool that grows with you, Monday.com is your best bet. Its user-friendly interface makes project tracking a breeze, whether you’re a solo freelancer or managing a large team. Plus, with customizable workflows and powerful integrations, it adapts perfectly to your specific needs. This flexibility means you can streamline your processes, save time, and keep everyone on the same page. It’s like having a personal assistant that keeps your projects on track and boosts productivity effortlessly.

Key features:

• Customizable Workflows: Tailor your workflows to fit your unique processes, enhancing efficiency
• Integrations: Connect with popular tools like Slack, Zoom, and Google Drive to centralize your work
• Automation: Automate repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors
• Collaboration Tools: Facilitate team communication with comments, tags, and real-time updates
• Visual Project Management: Use various views (Gantt, Kanban, Timeline) to manage projects visually
• Advanced Reporting: Generate detailed reports to track progress and performance

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to use with an intuitive interface	Higher pricing for Pro and Enterprise plans
Highly customizable to suit various needs	May require time to fully explore all features
Strong integrations with other tools	Automation can be complex to set up initially
Excellent customer support and resources	Basic plan lacks some advanced features
Scalable for teams of all sizes	Some users may find the interface overwhelming at first

 13. Coda

Pricing

Free: $0

Pro: $10/month per Doc Maker

Team: $30/month per Doc Maker

Enterprise: Custom pricing

Why it can be your best choice: Looking for a flexible and powerful tool to streamline your workflow? Coda might just be the perfect fit for you. It’s designed to bring all your documents, data, and teamwork into one place. With various pricing tiers, you can start for free and scale up as your needs grow. Plus, Coda’s intuitive design makes it easy to get started and customize to fit your unique needs.

Key features:

• All-in-One Document: Combine text, tables, and apps in a single doc for seamless collaboration
• Customizable Templates: Save time with pre-built templates tailored for various tasks and projects
• Real-Time Collaboration: Work together in real-time with team members, making edits and updates instantly visible
• Powerful Integrations: Connect with your favorite apps and services to streamline your workflow
• Automation Tools: Automate repetitive tasks to save time and increase productivity

Advantages	Disadvantages
It combines multiple tools into a single platform	New users face a learning curve when starting
The platform offers highly customizable templates	Costs increase significantly for larger teams
Users can collaborate in real-time on projects	Offline functionality is limited
It provides strong integration capabilities with other tools	The enterprise tier requires custom pricing
Automation tools help save time on repetitive tasks	Some key features are locked behind a paywall

14. Loom

Pricing

Free: $0/month

Business: $12.50/month (annually), $15/month (monthly)

Enterprise: Custom pricing

Why it can be your best choice: Loom is perfect for you if you need an easy, quick way to share information visually. Whether you’re explaining complex ideas, giving feedback, or just connecting with your team, Loom makes it simple and engaging. Its user-friendly interface and seamless sharing options mean you can focus on your message without worrying about the tech.

Key features:

• Screen Recording: Capture your screen with ease
• Webcam Integration: Add a personal touch with webcam recording
• Instant Sharing: Share videos instantly with a link
• Viewer Insights: Track who watches your videos and their engagement
• Trim and Edit: Quickly trim and edit your videos for a polished look
• Integration: Works with popular tools like Slack, Gmail, and more

Advantages	Disadvantages
User-friendly interface	Limited advanced editing features in the free plan
Instant sharing with a link	Business plans can be pricey for some users
Integrates with many tools	Custom pricing for Enterprise requires contact
Provides viewer insights	The free plan has limited recording time
Offers both screen and webcam recording	Some integrations require a Business plan

A Comparison 

Software	Best For	Key Strength	Pricing Model
Microsoft Teams	All-in-one solution	Integration with Microsoft 365	Subscription
Google Meet	Simple video conferencing	Ease of use	Freemium
Slack	Organized messaging	Channel-based communication	Freemium
Connecteam	Mobile workforce	Mobile-first approach	Per user/month
Workvivo	Employee engagement	Social features	Custom pricing
Dropbox	File sharing	Cloud storage	Freemium
Zoom	Video conferencing	High-quality video	Freemium
Skype	Basic communication	Wide adoption	Free/Pay-as-you-go
Trello	Visual project management	Kanban boards	Freemium
Jira	Software development	Agile project management	Per user/month
RingCentral	Unified communications	All-in-one platform	Per user/month
Hub	Centralized collaboration	User-friendly interface	Per user/month
Coda	Flexible documentation	Customizable docs	Freemium
Loom	Video messaging	Quick screen recording	Freemium
Monday.com	Project management	Customizable workflows	Per seat/month

Choose the Right Tool, the Right Time

Choosing the right communication software is crucial for your team’s success. Consider your organization’s specific needs, size, and workflow when selecting a tool. Many of these solutions offer free trials, so don’t hesitate to test a few before making a final decision.

Remember, the best communication software is the one that your team will actually use and benefit from. Prioritize user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and scalability to ensure long-term success.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between communication software and project management tools? 

Communication software focuses primarily on facilitating conversations and information sharing, while project management tools are designed to organize tasks, track progress, and manage resources. Some platforms combine both functionalities.

2. Are free versions of these tools sufficient for small businesses? 

Many free versions offer adequate features for small teams. However, as your business grows, you may need to upgrade to access more advanced features or to accommodate more users.

3. How do I ensure the security of my team’s communications? 

Look for tools that offer end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with relevant data protection regulations. Also, educate your team on best practices for online security.

4. Can these tools integrate with other software we’re already using? 

Most of the tools mentioned offer integrations with popular business software. Check their integration capabilities before making a decision to ensure compatibility with your existing tech stack.

5. How can I encourage my team to adopt new communication software?

Involve your team in the selection process, provide thorough training, and lead by example. Highlight the benefits of the new tool and how it will make their work easier or more efficient.

Related Reads

• Interoperable Chat Tools
• Best Team Chat Apps