Item: Google Hangouts (Classic)
Rating: 8
Author: Tony Phan

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

It was used as a messaging app to communicate between staff / teams with the purpose of discussing work related matters. It can also be used to communicate with customers / clients. It is surely a useful software / app to use for communication across the organization. However, there are still improvements needed when it comes to organizational chart and contact list.

Pros and Cons

Friendly user interface, sometimes it does not feel like you are chatting about work
It comes in all devices and all have slick UI. Not like some other messaging apps which are inconsistent between desktop / mobile version
Amazing alternative option for sms / mms

Lack of organizational chart if you are in a big organization
Some concerns regarding to privacy
Cannot communicate with other messaging softwares

Most Important Features

Sending videos / photos in reasonable resolution
Can be used in any web browsers, does not require installation
VPN friendly

Return on Investment

Communicate effectively saves tons of time & cost for emailing back and forth
When on-field staff is outside of office, it is easy to video call them
Does not require installation, can be used in any browser which saves time for IT

Alternatives Considered

Zoom and Skype for Business (formerly Lync)

An obvious advatange of Google Hangouts is that it does not require any installation which allows me to use it in any laptop, any device. Unlike other software that requires installation and forcing an IT guy to physically install it on my device. The software is also VPN friendly which is easy to setup in case your organization is strict when it comes to company VPN.

Key Insights

Do you think Google Hangouts (Classic) delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Google Hangouts (Classic)'s feature set?

Yes

Did Google Hangouts (Classic) live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Google Hangouts (Classic) go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Google Hangouts (Classic) again?

Yes

Other Software Used

Zoom Video Webinar, Skype, Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

Likelihood to Recommend

It is a very useful tool if you are trying to reach out to you co-worker in an urgent matter. The app is easy to install on any smartphone and tablet / laptop. Video call is also smooth. Sending photos and videos through Google Hangouts are also extremely easy which proves its usefulness if you are working on an events and requires constant moving.

Great 'Place' to virtually hang out with your co-office mates and discuss about work

Overall Satisfaction with Google Hangouts (Classic)