Updated January 13, 2017.
Team collaboration meets smart organization in Slack, transforming it into a powerful project management tool.
If you've used Slack, you know this freemium service streamlines group communication far better than endless email threads that sap productivity. At MakeUseOf, we've relied on Slack for team collaboration with outstanding results.
I recently discovered how its intelligent features and clean, distraction-free interface double as an effective project management solution for many users—solo or team-based. See if it fits your workflow and learn how to set it up as your go-to project assistant.
Slack shines for solo operators, two-person teams, and larger groups with thoughtful setup. For massive teams or highly complex projects, it may feel limiting—opt for dedicated PM tools instead.
Signing up is straightforward: Visit the Slack homepage, complete the form, and follow the prompts.
With your workspace live, tap into Slack's versatile features. Tailor them to your needs with these battle-tested tips.
Channels are Slack's communication backbone—dedicated message streams for teams or personal notes if you're flying solo. Create one per project to keep details neatly separated, plus an ideas channel.
Resist channel sprawl; limit to key projects. Here's a snapshot from my personal Slack setup:
For on-the-fly notes, direct message Slackbot, Slack's handy built-in assistant. It provides a private notepad visible only to you—ideal alongside team use without extra accounts.
You could also make a private group for yourself, but Slackbot keeps it simplest.
Post tasks in any channel (or Slackbot), hit Enter, then star it. Starred messages collect at https://your-team-url.slack.com/stars, acting as your dynamic to-do list. Unstar completed items to clear them.
Slack's app integrations—like Asana or Trello—enable shared team lists. Popular options include Twitter, Dropbox, MailChimp, and Google Drive.
The free Slack plan includes 5GB storage. Keep essential files (Google Docs, PDFs, images) at hand, and use the Create Snippet feature for reusable templates.
Stay on track with Slackbot reminders via the /remind command: /remind [who] [what] [when].
For a two-hour nudge on next week's schedule: /remind me to create a weekly work plan in two hours.
Recurring? Try: /remind me to create a weekly work plan every Friday.
Bot corrects syntax errors with helpful examples.
Pair with IFTTT for custom alerts, like pre-meeting pings on your preferred channel.
From Account Settings, set motivational startup messages or break reminders.
Bots handle everyday tasks—book rides, fetch RSS feeds, or search the web—all within Slack.
Pinpoint your routine chores and integrate bots to automate them.
Cross-platform support covers Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, and more. Install native apps for seamless access. Free accounts search the last 10,000 messages—ample for personal use.
For basic overviews, Slack might overdo it. But as a feature-rich organizer, it's a standout.
Expand it to manage wishlists, reading lists, calendars, or contacts. These tips kickstart the process—experiment to customize further.
Have you repurposed Slack like this? Share your tips in the comments.
