Originally published on IC Kollectif on September 22, 2016

As a communication professional who started in the technology industry, I’ve always been fascinated by new and emerging technologies that had the potential to enhance our corporate communication efforts. That being said, I wouldn’t call myself an early adopter. I would first watch and listen. I then would learn from those who pioneered new tools and technology and wait for the right time to introduce them in my workplaces.

Now as a business owner, who consults and speaks in the internal communication and employee engagement space, I’m contacted by entrepreneurs and start-ups often. Some have found technologies from around the world that they are selling locally, while others are Canadian-based companies that have built their own solutions, seeing an opportunity in a marketplace that still struggles to engage employees effectively. When I have the chance, I take the time to meet, receive a demonstration and ask a lot of questions and then my mind starts spinning with possibilities.

That’s why I’m starting The Communicator’s Tool Box blog series which will appear on LinkedIn Pulse and then be republished on my website at www.innerstrengthcommunication.com . About once or twice a month, I will feature a tool or technology I’ve seen demonstrated. The article will always include a set of consistent sections:

Tool Talk - A summary of the tool’s purpose and the problem it’s trying to solve.

Nuts and Bolts - What you need to know about the tool and how it works. How easy is it to implement.

Does it Measure Up - Analytics and measurement to identify the tool's success in the organizations where it’s being used.

Here are my rules.

1. I’ll only feature tools that I’m personally excited about applying. I don’t believe in jumping on bandwagons but look for proven solutions.
2. I will provide honest opinions on the opportunities and challenges of implementation. Tools don’t exist in a vacuum and we’re learning more and more that both the tool and the communication infrastructure must be in place for successful launch, adoption and maintenance.
3. I’m not paid to write about these technologies, but from time to time, may work with these organizations to help them implement tools with clients. If that is the case when writing the article, I will disclose this relationship.

Now I want to hear from you. What tools are you interested in learning more about? What questions must be asked? What challenges have you faced with launches and adoption of new communication technologies?

I know that communication and HR professionals are busy delivering programs every day. This series will introduce you to new technologies that will enhance the internal communication and employee engagement experience. I hope you enjoy it!

Stay tuned for our first series post focused on Employee Apps.

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