My team members work remotely and the following has helped to maintain the team's productivity at par: - Setting clear roles and expectations for every team member. - Keeping things open and transparent by looping all team members in relevant conversations and using collaborative tools during discussions. - Defining clear scope and objectives for every project/feature and help breaking down features into smaller work items with rough estimates for better tracking as checkpoints. - Having offline updates (along with regular syncs) so that everyone is aware of what is happening in the team and whom to reach out to for quick relevant discussions. - Having proper design documentations and sharing with the team to get timely feedback

Answers here (they sound like AI) are all applicable for LOCAL teams too. We just had this problem, and the keyword ks REMOTE. So… Make them feel like the local team! Step 1: make 1 video call where all remote and some local is there, and explain why the work is important. Create a friendly atmosphere by allowing little jokes and talk freely. Dont use generated backgrounds. Step 2: create a Skype group where all remotes and some locals are alway in the call (microphone muted), and whenever there is a question or break-time they say something. Keep this for as long as needed. This will cause many interruptions for awhile but it’s worth it. Step 3: do what the other answers said.

If I trust the team, I take the following steps: 1. Improve communication quality between the team and other stakeholders using modern tools. 2. Hold individual and group meetings to address communication challenges among team members. 3. Quickly review project progress from the beginning to ensure everyone is on the same page. 4. Conduct one-on-one meetings with team members to engage with and help resolve their most significant personal challenges. 5. Arrange an in-person meeting for a fun, non-work activity.

To improve productivity in a remote software design team, I focus on these three key areas: Set Clear Expectations: During sync-up meetings or 1:1s, ensure alignment on goals, timelines, and responsibilities. Everyone should know what’s expected, by when, and from whom. Provide Support: Emphasize that the team shares a common goal, and as a manager, our role is to assist. Encourage team members to seek help promptly rather than remaining stuck, especially in a remote setting where delays can be longer due to isolation. Encourage Communication: Regular and transparent communication is critical. Without the advantage of physical proximity, frequent check-ins and updates ensure that everyone stays on track and aligned.

Improving productivity in remote teams requires intentionality. Here is what worked for our team: ✨ BE CLEAR Clear goals ensure focus and shared understanding among team members. ✨BE CONSISTENT Consistent check-ins keep alignment and address roadblocks before they grow. ✨COMMUNICATE MORE Collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and JIRA streamline workflows seamlessly. ✨BUILD TRUST Empower your team by combining structure with trust and flexibility.