While Workspace has 2.6 billion users, the suite is free for individuals.
Google is updating its productivity software to better meet the needs of frontline and remote workers, betting that the pandemic has permanently changed the way jobs are done.
The Alphabet Inc. unit has adapted a version of the company’s workspace offering specifically for frontline workers, such as retail and healthcare workers. The effort will allow organizations to better communicate and collaborate with employees via their mobile phones, and is similar to a service provided by rival Microsoft Corp.
Workspace, formerly known as G Suite, will also integrate with Google’s digital voice assistant and get features to set and enforce unique work hours for employees.
The Internet giant is trying to make its range of productivity tools, including Gmail, Measure video conferencing and Docs word processing, essential for businesses plagued by the coronavirus pandemic. Over the past year, employees have had to balance professional and family needs while doing their work from home, which has encouraged the increase in unconventional working hours and other flexible arrangements.
Javier Soltero, vice president and general manager of Workspace, said Google was trying to embrace the “mess” of working life during the pandemic. “It will never be the same again, but we should use it as an opportunity rather than trying to recreate 2018 or 2019,” he added.
With the changes, Workspace will notify employees when they send a message to a colleague who does not have the clock, and encourage them to send an email for when the employee is online again. It is also possible to reduce distractions for periods, share employee positions with colleagues and compile recurring messages outside the office. Google Assistant will now work with corporate Workspace accounts, allowing people to send messages and check calendars with their voice.
While Workspace has 2.6 billion users, the suite is free for individuals. Google makes money from the software by logging in to paid accounts with business customers and other organizations.
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