Final Decision
With its plethora of connectors, Slack, an app for communication and collaboration, may serve as a central center for any kind of organization. There are tools to help boost productivity and visibility across all teams (or isolate information when necessary), and they're straightforward to use and come with a free plan.
To find out how simple or hard it is to use Slack, we spent hours evaluating both the free and commercial versions of the application. Despite its missing features, our Slack review reveals how it may become the backbone of your company's technology.
The Benefits We provide a free plan.Almost two thousand connections Automated processes on all paid plansVarious integrated methods of communication Easy-to-use interfaceCustomizable for each user.Advanced search feature
Cons Expensive plans The message history is hidden.Limited users in huddles
What is Slack?
Slack is a productivity program that gives organizations a centralized area for ideation, debate, and collaboration. It includes a vast number of connectors with numerous business tools you presumably currently use, which further boosts its utility. The many choices Slack gives for communication make it simple to hold a call, video conference, one-on-one chat, or group discussion.
Additionally, Slack is initially straightforward, with a UI that’s easy to comprehend from the start. Simply create topic- or project-based channels and invite relevant members to participate. File sharing is straightforward in such channels or via direct communications. You can adjust everything, from emoticons to alerts.
What sets Slack apart?
The primary advantage of Slack is that it saves all communication in perpetuity (to a degree), whether it’s in a one-on-one conversation, a group discussion, or even chat that occurs during a huddle (Slack’s short video and audio call option). In the areas where Slack doesn’t provide capability, it certainly offers app integration.
On top of the communication and collaboration features Slack provides for your coworkers, it also offers options for outside contributors. You can create partner-specific Slack bases so you can keep all communication with each client separate from your company (and yet include all the stakeholders). There are numerous layers of security, including HIPAA compliance, for top-tier plan customers.
Slack is a popular option among organizations for communication, and in the spirit of full transparency, we at Zousapps use it ourselves. It’s a vital tool that keeps everyone in sync. And while it isn’t an all-in-one solution for productivity (we link a number of other applications to Slack), it is one of the greatest collaboration tools available and easily made our list of the top 10.
The Benefits
As a corporate messaging platform, Slack excels at making communication between coworkers, teams, and outside customers or suppliers simpler than before. You have access to so many different methods to connect that you’re likely to discover what works best for you. Channels act a little like chat rooms, helping to keep subjects organized and divided.
Slack includes Canvases, which are like whiteboards that you can use to interact with colleagues or customers to brainstorm ideas, make lists, or exchange documents and data. Plus, Slack is straightforward to use and quick to personalize. You may join the channels that are important to you, disable alerts in channels you casually follow, and even generate personalized emojis for your workplace.
Cons
Slack grows pricey, particularly compared to comparable collaboration tools. There is a free plan, but it’s a little limited for organizations that need to access previous communications and documents beyond 90 days. Also, discussions tend to become buried in your left sidebar. The sophisticated search option is great for discovering what you need, but if you forget who you chatted with about a certain subject, you may have problems locating the discussion later.
Slack Core Features
Communication is the throbbing core of Slack, whether it's over messaging, huddles, or project-focused channels. Closely related qualities include collaboration and integration. Slack functions more as a communication hub with links to all the tools you need to get work done.
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Communication
Conversation is Slack's number one feature. There are various ways you may connect in Slack, but direct messaging and channel chat are the backbone of Slack. Paid users may view discussions forever; free plan users can search history for up to 90 days before it begins to vanish.
Additionally, Slack has a huddle tool that enables you to communicate via voice or video with everyone in your Slack. This helps cut down on the need for email or other communication applications, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. There are people who complain that the quality of audio and video is mediocre, but in our experience, it was seamless, and we had no difficulties with either. It is worth mentioning that audio and video conferencing are only suitable for up to 50 individuals.
Documents
Most Slack users are acquainted with how simple it is to exchange documents and other items over Slack. You can easily drag and drop a file from your desktop into a direct message or channel to share with others. Alternatively, you may incorporate a service such as Google Workspace, which makes it even simpler to exchange and collaborate on files. With that stated, there is no native document collaboration option in Slack.
Software Integrations
Slack is notable for connecting with different kinds of applications, which enhances its usefulness. There are more than 2,600 applications that connect with Slack, including analytics, marketing, human resources, project management, and communication tools. So, if you prefer Zoom for video conferencing and want to effortlessly transfer documents using Google or Dropbox, for example, you can.
Whiteboard
Canvas is one of Slack's most recent features. This is similar to other whiteboards in that you can collaborate with others to discuss ideas. You may develop material with others, exchange photographs, videos, and documents, add checklists, and rearrange as required. Canvases can operate via direct messages, channels, or on their own. They’re sharable, so you can share a link to a canvas with another Slack member, and they may edit and contribute until you lock modifications.
The main difference between Slack’s Canvas and traditional digital whiteboards is that you can’t draw or add sticky notes. Also, the version history is short: You receive seven days of version history on the free account; 30 days on the Pro plan; 90 days of history on the Business+ plan; and unlimited history on the Enterprise Grid subscription.
Advanced search function
Searching for past conversations or shared files on Slack is as straightforward as using any search bar, but Slack enables you to be more detailed. You may enter numerous keywords and then restrict your search by picking a direct message, a user’s name, a channel name, and a date. There are techniques to eliminate channels that may contain the term you’re looking for, as mentioned often. Advanced search in Slack is amazing, but it may take time to learn how to search properly.
Slack Pricing and Plans
Slack offers a forever-free subscription that includes most of its basic features. Slack's basic cost is $7.25 per user per month (paid annually). One step up is Business+, which costs $12.50 per user per month (paid annually). For better security and infinite workspaces, you may pick Enterprise Grid, which has no public cost and requires you to contact sales for a bespoke estimate.
| Free | Pro | Business+ | Enterprise Grid | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Monthly Price (Billed Annually) | $0 | $7.25 per user | $12.50 per user | Custom Quote |
| Versioning/Message History | 90 days | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Communication | Chat, audio, video | Chat, audio, video | Chat, audio, video | Chat, audio, video |
| Whiteboard | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Guest Access | X | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| File Sharing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Integrations | 10 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Support | Standard | 24/7 | 24/7 with four-hour response window | 24/7 priority support with four-hour response window |
- Free
The free plan from Slack is useful for any size team or organization. There are no restrictions on the number of individuals you may invite to your Slack. Keep in mind that communication and file history expire after 90 days. On the free plan, you cannot set up guest access for external collaborators, but you can work with them one-on-one. Huddles are also exclusively one-on-one. You miss out on the workflow builder and customization. Slack only allows free plan users to connect to 10 applications.
- Pro
With the Pro plan, you may use Slack with nearly zero constraints. You’ll have a complete message and file history; you can set up huddles with several individuals; and you can utilize Slack’s Connect function, which enables you to invite other users to your workplace with guest access. At this level, you'll have access to 24/7 support from Slack and an analytics dashboard to understand how your team uses Slack. This plan costs $7.25 per user per month (billed annually).
- Business+
For increased protection and control over how your organization uses Slack, consider subscribing to the Business+ package. Each month, it costs $12.50 per user (paid annually). The primary difference between this package and Pro is that you get more security options. For example, you can set up single sign-on (SSO) for users, and you may pick where your data sits. You'll also receive a guaranteed four-hour response time from assistance.
- Enterprise Grid
If you’re seeking Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance, you’ll need to pick the Enterprise Grid plan. There are additional security safeguards, as well as no restrictions on message or Canvas history. You also receive priority assistance with a guarantee of a response within four hours. You must contact sales for a personalized price estimate.
Slack setup and customization
Setting up Slack is as straightforward as any other program. Just enter your email to receive a code to create an account and your own workspace. Slack walks you through a quick walk-through on how to establish a channel and publish your first message. After that, we advise you to browse through the settings and administrative menu to personalize your workplace. It’s here that you can manage users, adjust permissions, demand authentication, and examine analytics.
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Each user gets to select their own settings, such as a light or dark theme, various colors, what displays on their sidebar, and how messages are presented. Slack also has accessibility features, so you may receive audible alerts of a new message or have emoji responses read aloud.
Slack Ease of Use
If you’ve ever used messaging software before, you’re likely to find Slack intuitive to use. Starting a discussion via direct message or a channel is easy. For new users joining an established Slack, it could be a little daunting at the beginning. We have more than 400 channels in our Slack, so it might be tough to know which discussions to join or how to search for relevant topics.
Also, without a tour of the platform, you may overlook essential settings and functions. For example, the workflow builder is open to all users, although it’s a little hidden under the tools area. Some Slack users we talked with weren’t even aware it was an option in Slack.
Slack Security
Depending on whatever Slack package you pick, you may have one of the most secure communication systems available. Slack provides all Plan customers with basic security measures. Data encryption is normal, so whatever you communicate or save in Slack’s cloud-based environment is safe. There’s also two-factor authentication (2FA) for all plans.
You may tighten up security by selecting a subscription plan, such as via authentication with Google, SSO, and corporate key management. There’s also support for particular compliances such as HIPAA, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Slack Customer Service and Support
To contact Slack’s customer care, you must go via the app or the website. The usual method for help is via email, and it’s open 24/7. Slack provides live chat assistance to its paid subscribers. Live chat support agents are accessible from 2 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.
Slack's customer service is more responsive than we expected, given its commitment to high-tier plan members. We contacted support and received an answer back in less than 20 minutes. The response was detailed, and our representative was courteous.
Additional Features
Though Slack is essentially a communication tool, it includes a few extra capabilities that enhance productivity and visibility that aren’t widely accessible in other comparable programs. With Slack, you may leverage some of its capabilities to make it into task management software or an internal documentation tool.
Organization Charts
User profiles are accessible for all plan subscribers. You may add information about your work title, name pronunciation, contact information, a picture, and your function at the organization. Admins may establish the information for profiles to include pronouns, manager information, and keep information up to date using the System for Cross-Domain Identity Management (SCIM), which is a typical feature in HR software. Additionally, you can construct a comprehensive org chart that also works as a directory, which lets users quickly discover the individuals in the firm they need to contact.
Workflow Automation
Finding workflow builders in the top project management software is straightforward, but not all productivity and communication applications provide the option. Slack does. We quickly designed routines to send private messages in certain channels, to reply automatically to messages we received, and to offer useful information to new users who just joined specific channels to help them get up to speed.
There’s no programming required to establish a workflow on Slack, and any user type may create and utilize workflows, as long as they’re on a paid account. The workflow builder operates similarly to others you may have used, such as Zapier. Choose the type of process you want to build, the stages, users, channels, or associated app, and the action you want it to take. You can make it a regular routine or a one-time-only item. And you can simply look for processes on Slack and manually activate them.
Partner Channels
One of the most beneficial features of Slack is the option to establish a separate Slack area for customers or partners. It’s simple to add personnel from your firm to the partner channel for speedy cooperation and communication. Slack Connect maintains everything segregated as needed, with the option to draw in stakeholders at any time.
This is most familiar to us because it works with a graphics firm. We were able to communicate directly with a graphic designer to discuss what we required, and he was able to send renderings to us quickly via our partner channel. When we decided we needed animation, he simply brought an animator to our shared area for that cooperation. The new individual was able to simply see our earlier discussions about the graphic and then construct what we required.
Slack Alternatives and How They Compare
| Slack | Microsoft Teams | Notion | Google Workspace | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Monthly Price (Billed Annually) | $7.25 per user | $4 per user | $8 per user | $6 per user |
| Free Trial or Free Plan | ✔ | X | ✔ | ✔ |
| Real-Time Document Collaboration | X | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Version History | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Content Hierarchy | X | X | ✔ | ✔ |
| Software Integrations | 2,600-plus | 2,000-plus | 71 | 5,000-plus |
| Whiteboard | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | X |
| Support | Standard | 24/7 | 24/7 with four-hour response window | 24/7 priority support with four-hour response window |
Although prices are comparable across all of the Slack alternatives we highlighted in the table above, there are substantial variations that may make one product worth a greater cost than a more reasonable one. Comparing Slack to other collaboration applications is tough since all of them have a distinct purpose.
Slack vs. Microsoft Teams
While Slack concentrates on chat-based collaboration, Microsoft Teams places greater emphasis on calls and video. For the most part, the two communication programs provide the same capabilities, but there’s a huge upside to picking Slack: It offers a free plan. With Microsoft Teams, you must be a Microsoft user, and there is no free plan. With that said, if you are a Microsoft customer, the pricing for Teams is far more inexpensive at $4 per user per month (paid yearly); Slack is roughly double the cost.
Slack vs. Notion
Slack and Notion are quite distinct tools. Slack is more of a communication platform, whereas Notion is more about document management and whiteboard collaboration. The good news is that both integrate with each other if you can't choose between them. However, if you require a tool for collaboration, Notion is likely the superior pick, but if you’re looking for a communication center, Slack would be ideal.
Slack vs. Google Workspace
Slack and Google Workspace provide many of the same capabilities, such as collaboration and communication; however, Google Workspace is a little better with cooperation using Google Sheets and Google Docs. You can use Google Connect to connect with coworkers and clients, but Slack offers a more seamless approach to interacting with separate channels for colleagues, projects, clients, or partners.
Who is Slack best for?
Slack is a wonderful communication and collaboration platform for anybody, whether you pick the free version or a more feature-packed subscription plan. It links to literally hundreds of other applications in order to be useful. Plus, the built-in process builder makes it simple to automate messages, checklists, and file transfers.
Our Expert Take
Using Slack is immediately intuitive. The messaging interface works similarly to other chat applications, and it’s easy to transmit a file, add an emoji to a message, and discover information from earlier chats. The subscription plans are certainly worth it to access previous data, link applications you currently use, and develop automated processes to enhance productivity. Slack Connect is a terrific method to interact with other users and store all files and information in one location. The one thing we don’t love about Slack is that you can’t fully utilize it for more than personal task management; we had to link a project management tool to our Slack to make it more useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best fit for Slack?
Slack is best utilized for keeping in contact with internal coworkers and external partners. Given that it’s a platform that interfaces with different kinds of software, it may serve as a company’s digital home base, where you link the applications you use every day to make it a functioning workplace for all teams.
- What’s the difference between Slack and Teams?
Both Slack and Microsoft Teams are productivity apps that provide comparable capabilities. The main difference between them is how they manage communication. Slack is primarily focused on conversation, whereas Teams provides more extensive video conferencing tools. Choosing between the two may come down to your tech stack. If you’re a Microsoft user, Teams may be your best option. If you utilize a range of applications, Slack is a superior option.
- Can employers monitor Slack messages?
The answer to this issue is twofold: There’s the legal answer, which varies by state regulations; and there’s the capacity to monitor communications answer, which relies on the plan your company pays for. Administrators of the free and pro plans may only export messages and files from public channels in a workspace. Business+ and Enterprise Grid managers may export data from all channels, including private and direct communications.
- What are the downsides of Slack?
Slack’s plans may grow pricey, particularly when compared to its rivals. It offers a free plan, but access to previous communications and documents is limited to 90 days. It also restricts users to huddles.
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