The 10 most used internal communication tools

Internal communication plays a crucial role in an organization's success. If information does not flow properly, misunderstandings can occur, leading to mistakes, inefficiency and frustration. Fortunately, there are numerous internal communication tools today that help organizations keep employees informed, improve collaboration and strengthen company culture. Here are the 10 most commonly used internal communication tools that can help your organization make communication smoother and more effective.

1. Email

Despite the emergence of new communication tools, e-mail remains one of the most widely used internal communication tools. It is simple, widely accessible and suitable for both formal and informal communication. Employees can read and respond to emails on their own time, which is especially useful for detailed messages or when people work in different time zones.

One disadvantage of e-mail, however, is that it can become overwhelming. The constant stream of messages can cause important information to get lost in an overcrowded inbox.

2. Intranet

The intranet is an internal platform where employees can find all the information they need. From company news to policies and procedures, the intranet provides a central place for information and is often accessible to all employees.

A well-designed intranet can also have features such as discussion forums, employee profiles and even collaboration tools, making it a versatile and powerful internal communication tool.

3. Team communication tools

Tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams and Google Chat have taken off in recent years. These tools allow real-time communication with colleagues, making them ideal for quick questions, brainstorming sessions and sharing updates. You can easily create different channels for specific projects or teams, keeping communication clear.

The big advantage of these tools is speed and simplicity. Employees do not have to wait for an e-mail and can get an immediate response. This promotes collaboration and ensures that everyone has quick access to the information they need.

4. Video Conferencing

With the increase in remote working, video conferencing has become a regular part of internal communications. Tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet allow employees to communicate face-to-face even when they are in different locations.

Video conferencing is particularly useful for meetings, project updates and even training sessions. They offer a more personal feel than an e-mail or chat and allow people to pick up on nonverbal cues, enhancing communication.

5. Internal newsletters

An internal newsletter is a great tool for keeping employees regularly informed about what's going on within the organization. It provides a structured way to share company updates, announcements, success stories and other important information.

An advantage of a newsletter is that it is an established communication channel that allows you to provide consistent and structured updates. Moreover, employees can read the newsletter at a time that suits them, which promotes flexibility.

6. Employee apps

Employee apps are gaining popularity, especially in companies where employees are on the go or do not have access to a desktop. An app allows employees anywhere to access company information, receive updates and even communicate directly with colleagues.

Apps such as Staffbase and Beekeeper offer platforms designed specifically for internal communication and employee engagement. The advantage of an employee app is that it makes communication mobile, which is especially useful for employees who are on the road or working in the field a lot.

7. Digital screens

For companies with physical offices or production facilities, digital screens are an effective communication tool. These screens can be used to display important announcements, safety instructions or KPIs in real time.

The great advantage of digital screens is that they are visual and always visible. Employees who do not regularly check their e-mail or other tools are still kept informed of important information this way.

8. Social intranets

A social intranet is a step beyond the traditional intranet. It combines the functionality of an intranet with the interaction of social media. Employees can not only look up information, but also post messages, respond to updates from colleagues and even participate in discussions.

This type of platform promotes interaction and collaboration among employees, which is especially useful for encouraging engagement and knowledge sharing within the organization.

9. Feedback Tools

Internal communication is not just about sending information, but also about listening. Feedback tools such as SurveyMonkey or Google Forms allow companies to conduct anonymous surveys, collect feedback and measure employee satisfaction.

By regularly asking for feedback, you show employees that their opinions are valued, which can increase engagement. Plus, you gain valuable insights you can use to improve internal processes and communication.

10. NFC-based digital business cards

An emerging and innovative means of communication are NFC-based digital business cards. This technology allows employees to quickly share contact details and other important information with each other by simply holding their phone against the card. Especially within large organizations or during internal events such as workshops and meetings, this is a valuable tool.

NFC technology makes data sharing fast, easy and error-free, which can improve internal communication by promoting instant connections. In addition, it is more environmentally friendly than traditional paper business cards, and data can be easily updated without the need for new cards.

Choose the right tool for your organization

NFC-based digital business cards are a good example of how technology can transform internal communications. This innovative solution makes it easy to quickly exchange contact information, especially during internal events and meetings. In addition, they are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional business cards and ensure that data is always up-to-date. Want to learn more about how this technology can enhance your internal communications? Discover the possibilities of NFC-based solutions and take your organization to a higher level of efficiency and collaboration.