Top 8 File Management Tools to Enhance Your Slack Experience

Finding the right file management tools for Slack can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. However, based on my experiences, I’m here to present the top solutions for sharing files with your team and managing applications seamlessly within Slack.

1. Google Drive

As a frequent user of Google Drive for document creation, it was a natural progression for me to integrate it with Slack. The Google Drive app for Slack allows effortless sharing of Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

When I share a document from Google Drive through Slack, it provides an automatic preview. The recipient can click to either read or edit as necessary. To avoid excessive notifications, I recommend typing “off” in your Google Drive conversation on Slack, as those alerts can become quite bothersome.

This integration allows you to share Google Drive links in both channels and private messages, contributing significantly to productivity on Slack.

2. Dropbox

I typically utilize Dropbox for photo sharing, and its integration with Slack makes it simple to share these files with clients. In addition to images, Dropbox facilitates the sharing of Word documents, PDFs, and more.

To post Dropbox files in Slack, simply input /dropbox in your chosen conversation or channel. After logging in, select the folders you’d like to share.

You can also opt to copy and paste file links directly into Slack if that’s more convenient for you. Furthermore, you can manage multiple Dropbox accounts on one device without any hassle.

3. Odrive

Odrive is a superb solution for those wishing to synchronize Slack files across various devices. Once granted access to your Slack, it promptly scans through all channels and direct messages to keep files organized and synced.

You can even update files from your computer’s file system, similar to functionality found in Dropbox or Google Drive clients.

To get started with Odrive in Slack, link your file-sharing platforms within your Odrive account and download the Odrive Desktop Sync application. You can take advantage of a seven-day free trial before deciding on a $99 yearly subscription.

4. OneDrive and SharePoint

If your primary focus is on Microsoft documents, then OneDrive and SharePoint offer an ideal integration with Slack. Utilizing Microsoft 365 alongside OneDrive storage provides an economical cloud storage solution for students.

After linking your Microsoft account, you can create OneDrive documents directly within Slack. Additionally, you can develop PowerPoint presentations or Excel spreadsheets without ever leaving the application.

You can also choose specific files from your OneDrive account to send links to, and recipients will see a preview pop-up if their browsers allow it.

5. Sync.com

Sync.com enables automatic synchronization of your desktop applications with the cloud, making it easy to share these within Slack. While there are paid plans available, you can enjoy up to 5GB for free on an individual plan.

If you don’t have the Sync.com desktop app, you can drag and drop files into the cloud or quickly select the Upload option to add documents you wish to store securely online.

I encountered some initial issues with signing into the app, but everything functioned smoothly afterward. Just type /sync to select files you’d like to manage or share.

6. Quip

Quip serves as an excellent file management application for Slack, allowing seamless handling of essential channel content. You can invite workspace members to easily share files.

Additionally, Quip enables you to share documents within Slack and receive alerts whenever modifications occur. This feature is particularly advantageous for larger teams requiring ongoing collaboration.

Furthermore, I leveraged Quip’s integration with Slack to create documents directly within the platform, especially beneficial if you already use Salesforce, as the software was developed with that context in mind.

7. Notion

While Notion is often recognized as a note-taking or project management application, it can also function effectively for file management in Slack. You can quickly share documents, notes, and calendars directly from the Notion app.

When sharing a link through Notion’s integration with Slack, others will get to see a preview. Depending on the permissions granted, they can make edits or add comments. This is particularly useful if you are already employing Notion for project management purposes.

Before sharing or managing files, ensure Notion is connected to your Slack account, regardless of whether you have a free or paid subscription. Notion can enhance collaboration by combining it with other top-performing Slack apps.

8. Nextcloud

For those preferring a self-hosted solution, Nextcloud provides an excellent choice. This application can be integrated with Slack via GitHub, available as either an on-premises or cloud service.

Nextcloud operates similarly to several other file-sharing platforms, allowing you to mark critical files as favorites. It also offers features for locking sensitive documents and organizing your workspace effectively.

Beyond file sharing, Nextcloud includes collaborative document tools and chat functionalities for improved teamwork, making it one of the best open-source alternatives.

If you’re in a tech-oriented role, you likely utilize Slack frequently and share numerous files. Integrating these various applications within your Slack account is not only practical but also significantly enhances productivity.

Image Credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by Danny Maiorca.

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