How to Collaborate on Projects

Give them a Common Purpose

The first step is to set the direction for the project by writing a Project Charter. This document describes the scope of the project, the goals to be met and the timeframes for delivery.

 Present your Project Charter to your team over lunch, describing what it is that they must deliver and by when. Then you can ensure that "everyone is on the same page". Remember, collaboration is all about bringing individuals together to form a team. By giving them a common direction, you're already on the right track.

Pair them up to Work Together

Then write your Project Plan and assign multiple people to the same tasks where appropriate, pairing them up to work together.

 That way, your team are forced to work together on common tasks, helping them to overcome any previous boundaries or communication difficulties.

 Make sure people only do work that is "on the plan", so you can stay within scope. That way, your team won't fragment with different directions appearing all over the place. Remember you need to create "one boat, one team, all rowing in the same direction"!

Give them the Right Tools

Incentivize your team to work together by giving them a toolset that allows them to:

• Store all their files online in one place.
• Discuss project tasks, issues and timeframes
• Message one-another when they need to
• See each others activity so they know what's happening
• View tasks, calendars and plans online

Promote Collaboration

Having a great tool set is certainly a step in the right direction. You also need to promote collaboration within your team personally. Reward and recognize great collaboration behavior when you see it. If you see team members communicating effectively online then reward them for it, in front of the team.

By giving your team a solid direction, the right tools at their fingertips and reinforcing great behavior, you can take a defragmented group of individuals and turn them on to the high performing team quickly.