Item: Google Hangouts (Classic)
Rating: 5
Author: Verified User

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We used hangouts across the small organization as a means of contact. It was a natural move as we also used Gmail for all our email services. Hangouts were primarily used for the chat function only, video calls, etc. we would leverage different programs. Before Covid-19, we'd use the chat function to communicate privately or ask specific questions without scheduling a meeting. We'd also have a lot of client calls where we could communicate in the background regarding the next steps and additional questions we should ask.

Pros and Cons

Integration with Gmail for a full experience, everything is in 1 place!
Ability to send/share images and files quickly via hangouts.
Chat function and group chats.

Emojis are difficult to use and not the best vs. iPhone.
Slow video features, less attractive than other video platforms.
The phone app is difficult to use, very easy to accidentally make a video call, and hard to back out of it. App can be very sluggish.

Most Important Features

Chat functionality
Integration with Gmail
Ability to share files via chat.

Return on Investment

Easy, quick communication between coworkers.
More collaboration.
Ability to remove meetings as can communicate informally via chat.

Alternatives Considered

Cisco Webex Meetings, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype

Again, Google Hangouts would primarily be used if you're already in the Google system. Corporate chat systems are far superior in functionality and usability and are also more reliable for larger organizations. For any company that is working with clients, I'd recommend a more mainstream tool like Zoom or Webex or Microsoft vs. Google Hangouts.

Key Insights

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

Not sure

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

Yes

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

I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process

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

Yes

Would you buy Google Hangouts (Classic) again?

Other Software Used

Cisco Webex Meetings, Zoom, Skype, Welcome Marketing Operations Platform (NewsCred), Smartsheet

Likelihood to Recommend

Google Hangouts is well suited if you're already in the Google world, it integrates well with everything and is a natural tool. However, there are many other chat platforms and video conferencing platforms that are far superior to Hangouts, both offering a better experience with the functionality but also just faster and more responsive. I've found that if you're working with a lot of outside clients, people don't know what to make of and have never used Hangouts making it difficult to jump on a quick meeting. Many are far more familiar with tools like Microsoft Teams, Webex, and Zoom.

A good addition if you're already in the Google system, but far superior platforms exist for businesses.

Overall Satisfaction with Google Hangouts (Classic)