Best Online Whiteboards for Greater Collaboration

The 6 Best Online Whiteboards for Greater Collaboration

Abhishek
By Abhishek | Last Updated on April 4th, 2024 11:58 am

As the modern work environment is becoming more digital-centric, the traditional whiteboard has evolved into a virtual space to help improve team collaboration. Online whiteboard applications have become indispensable tools for remote and hybrid teams, offering seamless visual collaboration regardless of geographic location. The global online whiteboard software market was valued at USD 9.56 Million in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 24.67 Million by 2027 (Source). In this blog, we'll explore the best whiteboard software available in 2023. These platforms empower teams to brainstorm, plan, and innovate together in real-time, making them essential for modern work dynamics. To further elevate the experience you can also look at setting up meaningful app integrations using Appy Pie Connect.

What Makes the Best Online Whiteboard?

The world is going digital and remote work has become a norm with multiple team members working from different locations. Hence, online whiteboards have become a necessity for collaborative work. Listed below are some of the most important factors you must consider while choosing the best online whiteboard.
  1. Unlimited Canvas: An ideal online whiteboard should offer an expansive canvas without size restrictions. This allows users to freely express their ideas without worrying about running out of space. The ability to zoom in and out and navigate seamlessly across the canvas is essential for accommodating different visualizations.
  2. Collaboration Features: Collaboration lies at the heart of whiteboarding. The best online whiteboards facilitate real-time collaboration, enabling multiple users to work together effortlessly. Whether through private collaboration between team members or by sharing links or access codes, the tool should make it easy for everyone to participate.
  3. File Attachment: A robust online whiteboard should support various types of file attachments. Users should be able to add links, images, documents, and other files directly to the whiteboard. This feature simplifies reference and enhances discussions by providing easy access to relevant information.
  4. Presentation Options: Whiteboards often serve both as brainstorming tools and presentation aids. Therefore, the best online whiteboards offer diverse presentation options. This may include the ability to share the whiteboard online, export it for offline use, or engage a dedicated presentation mode. The more advanced the presentation features, the better.
  5. Accessibility: Accessibility is crucial in today's flexible work environment. The best online whiteboards should be accessible through web browsers, ensuring that users can collaborate from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, mobile compatibility further enhances accessibility, allowing users to participate even when not at their desktops.
  6. User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface is essential for a seamless whiteboarding experience. The tool should be intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring that users can focus on their ideas rather than struggling with the platform's usability.
  7. Integration Capabilities: Integration with other apps and software can greatly enhance the utility of an online whiteboard. The best whiteboards often offer integration options with popular productivity tools, project management software, and communication platforms, allowing for a seamless workflow.
  8. Customization: Whiteboards should allow users to personalize their workspace to suit their specific needs. This may involve adding templates, customizing the canvas layout, or creating reusable design elements that align with the team's workflow.
  9. Security and Permissions: For sensitive projects and collaborative work, robust security features are essential. The best online whiteboards offer granular control over permissions, ensuring that users can restrict or grant access as needed to protect confidential information.
  10. Feedback and Support: Timely support and feedback mechanisms are crucial. Users should have access to help resources, tutorials, and responsive customer support to address any issues or questions that may arise during their whiteboarding sessions.
    11. The best online whiteboards combine a user-friendly interface, robust collaboration features, accessibility, and customization options to create a versatile and effective tool for visual collaboration and brainstorming. Evaluating these criteria can help teams choose the right online whiteboard that aligns with their specific needs and enhances their collaborative efforts.

    The Top 6 Online Whiteboard Apps in 2023

    As you are equipped with all the above information, you are now in a better position to make the choice for the best whiteboard software for team collaboration, meetings, and brainstorming. Let's delve into our top picks for the best online whiteboard apps to suit various needs and preferences.
    1. Miro
      2. Platforms:Web, macOS, Windows, iOS, AndroidPricing:Free for three editable boards; from $10/user/month for the Starter planWhy Miro?Miro is a versatile online whiteboard available across multiple devices. It offers a wide range of templates and supports easy creation and customization of boards. Miro's marketplace allows for seamless integration with other apps, enhancing your collaboration experience. It excels not only in brainstorming but also in project management, making it ideal for teams needing end-to-end support.
    2. Stormboard
      3. Platforms:Web, iOS, AndroidPricing:Free for the Personal account; from $10/user/month for the Business planWhy Stormboard?Stormboard takes a sticky note-style approach to ideation, making it easy for users to jot down and organize ideas. Its unique feature allows each digital sticky note to become a collaborative whiteboard, facilitating in-depth brainstorming and collaboration. With integration capabilities through Appy Pie Connect, Stormboard adds automation to your whiteboarding process.
    3. Mural
      4. Platforms:Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, AndroidPricing: Free for 3 murals with unlimited members; from $12/user/month for the Team+ planWhy Mural?Mural's multi-canvas layout offers flexibility and organization for remote teams. It provides a variety of templates and facilitates teamwork through different rooms with varying access permissions. Mural excels in remote team meetings, offering features like timers, chat boxes, and timed voting sessions for candid feedback. Integration with other apps further enhances its capabilities.
    4. Limnu
      5. Platforms:WebPricing:Free plan available with 14-day access to whiteboards; from $5/month for the Pro plan; $8/user/month for the Team planWhy LimnuLimnu offers a digital whiteboard experience that closely resembles a physical whiteboard. It's an excellent choice for educators seeking to teach students remotely. With easy sharing options, students can access the whiteboard without complex sign-up processes, ensuring a smooth teaching session.
    5. InVision Freehand
      6. Platforms:Web, iOSPricing:Free plan available for 3 editable boards; from $4.95/user/month for the Pro planWhy InVision Freehand?InVision Freehand is a versatile tool that suits both designers and collaborative teams. It supports real-time feedback on design files and allows for easy syncing with popular design software. While it may lack group chat tools, it excels in providing a platform for visual collaboration and feedback.
    6. Ayoa Ultimate
      7. Platforms: Web, iOS, AndroidPricing: From $13/user/month, billed annuallyWhy Ayoa Ultimate?Ayoa Ultimate offers a comprehensive solution for brainstorming, task management, and whiteboarding. It integrates seamlessly with mind mapping and task boards, creating a holistic work environment. While it comes at a premium price, Ayoa's user-friendly interface and commitment to innovation make it a strong contender for those seeking a complete solution.

      How to use online whiteboards?

      Using online whiteboards is a simple and effective way to collaborate, brainstorm, and share ideas in a virtual environment. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use online whiteboards effectively:
      1. Select an Online Whiteboard Too:Choose a reliable online whiteboard tool that suits your needs.
      2. Sign Up or Log In:Create an account or log in to your chosen online whiteboard platform.
      3. Create a New Board:Start by creating a new whiteboard or board within the platform. You can choose from the ready-to-use templates or start with a blank canvas.
      4. Familiarize Yourself with the Interface:Take a moment to explore the interface. Most online whiteboards have a toolbar or menu where you can access drawing tools, text, shapes, and other features.
      5. Invite Collaborators:If you're collaborating with others, invite them to join your board by sharing a link or sending them an invitation. Many platforms allow real-time collaboration with team members or external participants and if this is important for you, choose an appropriate platform.
      6. Use Drawing Tools:Start adding content to the whiteboard using drawing tools. You can draw freehand, create shapes, add text, and use different colors to make your content visually appealing.
      7. Attach Files and Media:Most online whiteboards allow you to attach files, images, documents, or links directly to the board. This is useful for referencing external content during discussions.
      8. Collaborate in Real Time:Collaborate with team members by drawing, annotating, or adding comments in real-time. Multiple users can work on the same board simultaneously, making it easy to brainstorm and share ideas.
      9. Organize Content:Organize your content on the whiteboard canvas. You can group related elements, use layers, or create separate sections for different topics or ideas.
      10. Save and Share:Save your whiteboard session to ensure you don't lose your work. Many platforms offer options to save or export the board as an image or PDF. You can also share the board with others for future reference or feedback.
      11. Presentation Mode:If you need to present your ideas, most online whiteboards offer a presentation mode. This allows you to navigate through the board smoothly, ensuring a clear and engaging presentation.
      12. Collaborate Beyond the Board:Some whiteboard tools integrate with other apps and software, allowing you to seamlessly transition your ideas into project management tools, task lists, or communication platforms.
      13. Seek Support and Resources:If you encounter any issues or want to explore advanced features, consult the platform's help resources, tutorials, or customer support.
      14. Collaborate and Iterate:Continue collaborating on the whiteboard, making changes, and iterating on ideas until your objectives are met.
      15. Exit and Save:Once your session is complete, exit the whiteboard, ensuring that your work is saved for future reference.
        16. Online whiteboards are versatile tools that enhance collaboration and creativity in both remote and in-person settings. By following these steps, you can harness the full potential of online whiteboard platforms for your team's success

        Wrapping Up

        Selecting the best online whiteboard app for your team depends on your specific needs. If you're already using tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, or Google Meet, their built-in whiteboard features may suffice. However, if you require dedicated online whiteboard software with advanced features, integrations, and customization, consider one of the options mentioned above. Each of these apps offers a unique collaborative whiteboard experience tailored to different requirements. In conclusion, online whiteboards have revolutionized how teams collaborate and innovate in today's digital landscape. Choose the one that aligns with your team's workflow and watch your creativity and productivity soar.

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