# Communication Tools

***

### **1. Setting Up Your Titan Email**

As a part of our team, you'll be using Roundcube for your professional email communications. Here's how to get started:

1. **Access Your Email:**
   * Go to <https://secure368.inmotionhosting.com:2096/>.
   * Your email address is in the format: <yourname@bigosoft.us>.
2. **Initial Setup:**
   * Upon your first login, use the system-generated password provided by HR.
   * You'll be required to change your password! It is your responsibility to keep your email account secure.
3. **Mobile App:**
   * You can also setup your email on your Mobile's built-in 'mail' or 'email' apps.
     * incoming & outgoing server: mail.bigosoft.us
     * SMTP Port: **465** | IMAP Port: **993** | POP3 Port: **995**
   * Log in using your email credentials to stay connected anywhere.

### **2. Communicating via Slack**

**Getting Started with Slack**

Slack is our primary tool for day-to-day communication and project coordination.

1. **Download and Install:**
   * Download Slack from [Slack Download](https://slack.com/downloads).
   * Install the application on your device.
2. **Logging In:**
   * Use your Titan email (<yourname@bigosoft.us>) to log in.
   * You'll be added to relevant channels by the administration.
3. **Your Channels:**
   * **Personal Channel (e-your-name):** For direct communication with the administration and raising any concerns.
   * **Project Channels (p-project-name):** For all project-related discussions.
4. **Communication Guidelines:**
   * We encourage communication within the designated channels to foster transparency and collaboration.
   * Direct messaging is discouraged to maintain a professional and moderated communication environment.

### 3. Google Account Setup and Usage

**Accessing Google Services with Your Big O Soft Account**

Your Big O Soft account provides access to various Google services, enhancing collaboration and productivity. Here’s how to set it up and make the most of it:

1. **Creating Your Google Account:**
   * Visit the [Google Account Sign Up Page](https://accounts.google.com/signup).
   * Use your Big O Soft email (<yourname@bigosoft.us>) to register.
   * Note: You won’t have access to Gmail, but all other Google services are available.
2. **Accessing Google Drive:**
   * Once your account is set up, access [Google Drive](https://drive.google.com).
   * Use Drive to store, share, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
   * Familiarize yourself with sharing settings to collaborate effectively with your team.
3. **Using Google Meet for Meetings:**
   * For virtual meetings, use [Google Meet](https://meet.google.com).
   * You can join meetings via links shared by colleagues or schedule your own.
   * Ensure you have a proper setup (webcam, microphone) for clear communication.
4. **Other Google Services:**
   * Explore other services like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for various tasks.
   * Your Big O Soft account allows you to create, share, and collaborate on these platforms.
5. **Google Account Security:**
   * Set a strong, unique password for your Google account.
   * Enable two-factor authentication for added security.
6. **Troubleshooting and Support:**
   * If you encounter issues with your Google account, contact our IT support team.
   * For general queries on using Google services, refer to [Google’s Help Center](https://support.google.com/).

### 4. Basecamp for Project Management

Basecamp is our primary project management tool for organizing work and tracking progress.\
(<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peGIkgNBDNU>)

1. **Access and Setup:**
   * You'll receive an invitation to join relevant Basecamp projects via email.
   * Download the Basecamp mobile app for on-the-go access.
   * Log in using your Big O Soft credentials.
2. **Project Communication:**
   * **Team Chat:** For internal discussions, brainstorming, and team coordination.
   * **Client Chat:** For direct communication with clients and project updates.
3. **Our Approach:**
   * **Sprint-Based Workflow:** Projects are organized into sprints (typically 1-2 week cycles).
   * **Hill Charts:** Use Basecamp's Hill Charts to visualize your progress - uphill for problem-solving, downhill for execution.
4. **Best Practices:**
   * Keep Hill Charts updated regularly to show your progress.
   * Use Team Chat for internal matters and Client Chat for external communications.
   * Break down work into actionable to-do items within each sprint.

***


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