Revolutionizing Remote Game Development: A New Approach to Teamwork

The traditional model of game development, where teams work together in a shared physical space, has been turned on its head. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing many companies to adopt remote work, it's become clear that this new way of working can be just as effective, if not more so. In fact, data suggests that productivity has increased since the shift to remote work, with many companies seeing improved results. So, why are some companies trying to get employees back to the office? The answer lies in the way we approach teamwork and collaboration in a remote setting. At NDreams Elevation, we believe that a fully virtual team can be just as effective as a traditional one, without compromising on creativity, quality, or efficiency. To achieve this, we've had to rethink our approach to teamwork and communication. One key area of focus has been the concept of meetings. Traditional meetings can be time-consuming and often don't achieve their intended purpose. Instead, we use virtual tools like Miro and Microsoft Teams to facilitate communication and collaboration. These tools allow us to work together in real-time, share ideas, and track progress, all without the need for scheduled meetings. Establishing a clear vision and goals is also crucial for a remote team. We make sure that everyone understands what we're working towards and why, and that we have a shared understanding of our priorities. This clarity of purpose helps to eliminate the need for unnecessary meetings and ensures that everyone is working towards the same objectives. We also prioritize transparency and open communication. All team members have access to all channels, and we encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas. This approach has helped to break down hierarchical barriers and create a more collaborative, inclusive environment. Another important aspect of remote work is tracking team health. We recognize that remote workers can be more prone to isolation and stress, so we make sure to check in regularly and provide support when needed. We also prioritize work-life balance and encourage team members to take breaks and practice self-care. In terms of communication, we've found that reducing the number of channels can actually help to increase engagement and encourage deeper conversations. By streamlining our communication, we can focus on the most important topics and avoid unnecessary noise. Ultimately, the key to successful remote game development is to be intentional about how we work and communicate. By questioning traditional models and embracing new approaches, we can create a more effective, efficient, and enjoyable way of working. As the industry continues to evolve, it's up to us to experiment, learn, and adapt, and to create a better future for game development.