Working with a bunch of professionals from remote locations can be an uphill undertaking under the best of circumstances. Synergising workflows, delegating tasks, defining KPIs and taking stock of the project’s progress collectively and from every individual are just a few challenges that remote work initially brings on.
But the last two years have shown us that managing remote work is not only possible; it’s even desirable to some degree. It lets people work from the comfort of their home, allowing them to be mentally relaxed, which ultimately aids their work.
So, on that note, let’s have a look at a few ways that you can manage a remote team of UI/UX developers working with you from remote locations:
Effective Task Delegation
The number one to-do for any manager would be to learn how to delegate tasks to individual team members in a manner that gives them enough time to come up with creative solutions without affecting their workload and productivity.
Here are a few ways you can go about it:
- Set Achievable KPIs
- Set up a team meeting schedule
- Set up a structure that lets individuals collaborate without intrusion
- Use software for task appointments and monitoring
- Have frequent one-on-one project discussions
Most importantly, trust your team to get the job done and don’t fall into the micro managerial trap.
Leverage The Latest Remote Work Software
Remote work brought to light so many enterprise applications that are perfect for working with teams based in different locations. Research the best applications you can use to keep up the work and also stay connected with your team. Here are a few apps to help you out:
- ProofHub, an online project management software
- Slack, to manage internal communications
- Bit.ai, cross-management document management and collaboration platform
- Krisp.ai, an app that blocks out all external noise so your teams can work in peace
- Kickkidler.com, a tool to manage your team’s everyday activities. Use it well, don’t go overboard for your team's sake.
And the usual apps such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Zoom, and MS Teams. Leverage these apps to keep the workflow smooth and employee productivity high.
Look After Your Team’s Well-being
Perhaps the biggest non-work related topic that has gained traction ever since people began working remotely is the importance of employees' mental health. It’s imperative that you keep a fine balance between getting the work done and giving employees their own time, despite they being in their own space.
It becomes even more important for someone like UI/UX designers, who need to be creatively switched on for close to 1/3rd of the day. They and other employees working on creative solutions for a project will need that breathing space so that they can work without any diversions.
Try to be empathetic to your team’s situation. Almost all of them would have had to make massive changes to their daily schedules and their way of working.
Besides these three points, you can always conduct team bonding activities, help them learn a new skill, work-related or otherwise or just randomly ring up a few members and engage in informal non-work conversations.
These may seem like little gestures, but they go a long way in boosting morale, uplifting their confidence in their ability and your trust in them, and making them feel relaxed.
Understandably, the norm of remote work is a challenge for managers too. So take time to relax, take care of yourself, and trust that your team will get the job done.
Be the manager you never had!
*source: https://uxdesign.cc/remote-working-tips-for-ux-design-teams-62aa1d625914
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