Support

What is Slack and How Does It Improve Productivity?

William Westerlund
March 5, 2025
Read time

In today’s fast-paced work environment, success is highly dependent on efficient communication. So, what is Slack?

The answer is a robust messaging app, created specifically for teams, aiming to make communication flow easier for customers, reduce email usage, and increase teamwork productivity.

If you look up what the Slack app does, what Slack does, what Slack.com is, or what Slack software is, this cheatsheet will guide you in what you need to know and be proficient in using Slack.

Key Takeaways

  • Slack is a communication and collaboration platform for teams, which, among other things, provides live chat, video calls, and tools for linking.
  • Most companies thus use it primarily for internal correspondence and organization, thereby making it less time-consuming to keep track of updates and maintain records.
  • Teams can experiment in their workspace and unleash their creativity with custom-built settings, logos, and even characters.
  • Slack supports companies through its easy and convenient communication, allowing them to maximize their potential.

Definition of the Slack Application

Slack is a cross-platform tool for collaborative work, which can be installed on your computer, plus it also has mobile and web versions, and Slack integrates with various other tools. Anybody who has ever wanted to know the meaning of the phrase “What is the Slack app?” or “What is Slack?” could be well provided with a parcel of the truth in three words: The hub of your company’s communication.

For example, it plays really well with Google Workspace, Trello, Zoom, and GitHub which cumulatively transform Slack into a digital office that is easy to identify and one you are always in. As a result, teams have it to be their:

  • Instant messaging
  • File sharing
  • Project management updates
  • Cross-department communication
  • Video conferencing

Slack is the perfect tool for companies that are looking for a more efficient way of communication for customer support teams and remote work.

Slack Messaging Feature Block

What is Slack Messaging?

Messaging that is done through Slack is the main feature that distinguishes the platform from the rest, alongside features like the workflow builder. Unlike the usual email, Slack’s messaging is instant, organized, and can be searched. This is what makes it strong:

  • 💬
    Channels: Spaces that are focused on projects or departments
  • 👥
    Direct Messages (DMs): One-on-one or small group conversations that are private
  • 🧵
    Threads: Replies can be linked without taking up space in the main channel
  • 📞
    Voice & Video Calls: An already integrated communication beyond text
  • 🚀
    Reactions and Mentions: The fastest methods of adding to the message that the sender has been found

In case you have been asking yourself what is Slack communication or what is Slack chat, here it is: a team conversation system that utilizes public and private channels, is in real-time and centralized.

Slack’s Purpose: Why Use Slack?

Slack intended to become the primary medium through which businesses communicate; thus, primary business communication should still be via email, as it was previously.

Slack transforms what used to be a flooded email inbox into a more organized digital environment, where discussions, files, and team-related tools are all in one location.

One can do the following via Slack:

  • Collaborate with other organizations and clients outside your company.
  • Assign work and keep people informed through the use of the real-time update feature.
  • Develop specific communication methods specifically designed to be used within your company;
  • Use the integration feature to complete the daily hours automatically

There are several plans available with Slack, such as Free, Standard, and. 

Small teams with a limited number of members can operate efficiently with the Free plan. 

At the same time, larger organizations can benefit from multiple features available through paid subscriptions, including advanced security, unlimited integrations with third-party services like Suptask tiecketing system, and enterprise-level features.

Getting Started with Slack

Do you need to know what Slack is used for or are you inclined to learn how to make use of Slack? We can go through the process step by step if you like.

Signing Up

Registering yourself with the service will require the use of an email address, the selection of a username, and the creation of a password. To increase security, activate two-factor authentication.

Joining or Creating a Workspace

The area where teams interact is called a Slack workspace. The following can be done:

  • Accept an invitation to join a workspace
  • Use the “Add workspaces” feature to create your own workspace
  • Invite co-workers to start sharing

Setting Up Your Profile

You should include the following in your profile:

  • Name and position
  • Profile picture (512x512 px is recommended)
  • Location and start date
  • Social media links if relevant

Navigating Slack: Channels, Direct Messages, and Threads

Channels

Slack channels are just like chat rooms that are specially made for you. They are:

  • Public: Any member can join without any restriction
  • Private: Only by invitation and for confidential discussions

Change a channel by clicking “Add” next to Channels, picking a visibility, giving it a name, and writing a description.

Direct Messages

DMs are just like private conversations where you can have a chat with your teammates or a small group whom you invite. To start a DM, click “Direct Messages” in the sidebar and select “Create Direct Message.”

Threads

Threads help to keep the conversation organized. You can reply to a particular message without making the channel a mess.

Slack Features

Additional Slack Features

Besides the main features, Slack has many little things that people don’t know about, including various Slack integrations:

  • 🤖
    Slackbot: Takes care of reminders and assists in the most common questions
  • 🔍
    Search Functionality: Just a few seconds are enough to get the messages, files, or channels you are looking for
  • 👍
    Reactions and Mentions: Next to one of the easiest ways to quickly acknowledge or tag teammates is these features
  • 📁
    File Sharing: With just a few clicks, you can easily share files with others or the team
  • 💻
    Voice, Video, and Screen Sharing

Slack Atlas for Enterprises

Slack Atlas is built for Business+ and Enterprise Grid users, and it comprises the following features:

  • 👤
    More comprehensive and searchable profiles
  • 📊
    Adjustable organizational charts
  • 🔒
    Advanced security and privacy measures (Support for HIPAA, Data Loss Prevention features)

Integrating Apps to Boost Productivity

One can connect Slack to thousands of different applications and tools, among which we can single out:

  • Suptask for ticketing
  • Trello for project management
  • Google Calendar for scheduling
  • HubSpot and Mailchimp for marketing
  • GitHub for developers

By adding applications, companies simplify the steps of their workflow and concentrate on what is necessary to them.

Customizing Your Slack Experience

  • Themes: Go from light to dark or create your own color theme.
  • Preferences: Change the notifications, message displays, and even accessibility.
  • Custom Emojis: Feel free to create your own (128x128px) emojis, just to make communicating more interesting with your friends.

What Does Slack Look Like?

The visuals of Slack are nice and contemporary:

  • Sidebar: Shows channels, DMs, and apps
  • Main Chat Window: This is the place where the messages are exchanged
  • Top Bar: Contains search, settings, and user options

Benefits of Slack for Businesses

  • Gets rid of the madness of email
  • Decision-making is accelerated
  • Work conversations remain recorded and can be searched later
  • Works perfectly with other apps
  • Provides security at the enterprise level

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slack?

Slack is a messaging platform designed to facilitate communication and collaboration among teams. It provides various features, including channels, direct messaging, voice and video calls, and integration with other productivity tools.

How does Slack improve productivity?

Slack enhances productivity by streamlining communication, reducing email clutter, enabling real-time conversations, and integrating with various tools that support project management.

Can I replace other project management tools with Slack?

While Slack provides many features that support project management, it is best used to enhance existing tools rather than replace them. Integrating Slack with project management software can improve overall workflow and communication.

How can I create a group in Slack?

To create a group in Slack, go to the Direct Messages section, click “Create a New Group,” and then invite the relevant team members to join.

What integrations does Slack offer?

Slack integrates with a wide range of tools such as Trello, Google Drive, Asana, and Suptask. These integrations help streamline workflows and improve team efficiency.

How can I manage notifications in Slack?

You can manage notifications by going to your profile settings, selecting "Preferences," and adjusting how and when you receive alerts for messages, channels, and DMs.

What are the best practices for using Slack effectively?

Best practices include creating dedicated channels for projects, using threads for specific discussions, utilizing reminders for tasks, and integrating relevant apps to enhance functionality.

How secure is Slack for team communication?

Slack employs strong security measures, including data encryption, two-factor authentication, and other compliance features to protect user information. However, it's essential to follow best practices for managing passwords and access permissions.
William Westerlund

Get started with Suptask

14 Days Free Trial
No Credit Card Required
Get Started Easily
A Add to Slack
Try a Slack Ticketing System Today
No credit card required