I love software. I’m particularly fond of tools that aim to support teamwork, e.g. managing projects. Still, every now and then I ask myself: “Where’s the real value in using collaborative software?” — bearing in mind that geographically dispersed teams aren’t the most popular form of teamwork. Questions that come to mind:
- Is software an excuse not to move people to a common location?
- Are the business benefits related to buying the new tool sufficient?
- Can my team do with a whiteboard and a good idea instead?
- Is everyone ready to jump on the e-bandwagon?
- What are the entry barriers for new users?
- What if we decided to ditch the tool after some time?
Before getting too excited, it’s good to have the following in mind:
“To a man with a hammer everything looks like a nail.” (Mark Twain)
