Parts one and two discussed the strategies to help you build a successful remote team. For the third part, we will explore how to measure productivity. Measuring productivity in a remote team can be challenging due to the lack of physical presence and the need to measure outcomes rather than inputs.

1. Establish Clear Performance Metrics

The first step in measuring remote team productivity is establishing clear performance metrics. Clear performance metrics can help remote team members understand what is expected of them and provide a clear picture of how their work contributes to the overall goals of the team and the organization.

Performance metrics can include individual goals, team goals, and organizational goals. It is important to ensure that these goals are measurable, specific, and achievable. Regular updates and progress reports can help team members stay on track and ensure they meet their performance metrics.

2. Utilize Productivity Tools

Productivity tools can help remote team members stay organized and focused. Project management tools, time-tracking software, and communication tools can help remote team members stay on top of their tasks and collaborate effectively.

Time-tracking software can measure productivity by tracking the time spent on a task. This can help remote team members identify areas where they may be spending too much time and adjust their work habits accordingly. 

Project management tools can help track progress and ensure deadlines are met, while communication tools can help team members stay connected and collaborate effectively.

3. Establish Clear Communication Channels

Effective communication is essential to building a high-performing remote team and measuring productivity. Establishing clear communication channels can help remote team members stay connected and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Clear communication channels can include video conferencing, instant messaging, email, and project management tools. It is important to establish guidelines for communication, such as response times and expectations for availability. 

Regular check-ins and progress updates help remote team members stay on track and ensure everyone works toward the same goals.

4. Track Deliverables and Outcomes

Measuring productivity in a remote team requires tracking outcomes rather than inputs. This means tracking deliverables and outcomes rather than simply tracking the time spent on a task.

Tracking deliverables and outcomes can include tracking the number of tasks completed, the quality of work, and the impact of the work on the organization. This can help remote team members understand how their work contributes to the overall success of the team and the organization.

5. Regular Performance Reviews

Regular performance reviews help remote team members understand how they are performing and what they can do to improve. Performance reviews can also provide an opportunity to provide feedback and recognition for a job well done.

Performance reviews can be conducted on a regular basis, such as every quarter or every six months. It is important to establish clear performance metrics and goals before conducting a performance review. 

Conclusion

Measuring productivity in a remote team requires establishing clear performance metrics, utilizing productivity tools, establishing clear communication channels, tracking deliverables and outcomes, and conducting regular performance reviews. 

By implementing these plans, companies can accurately gauge the productivity of a team working from a distance and create a remote team that achieves outstanding results while remaining active, involved, and stimulated.

Create connections, build culture, or just have fun with the help of BreakoutIQ. We specialize in hosting online team building activities for your employees. Simply book an event with us, have your team meet us on your desired video conferencing platform, and we’ll take it from there.