“1. Slack Best overall for agencies”
“Automation: Built-in Workflow Builder for forms, notifications, routing, and simple approval processes.”
“Client access: Slack Connect lets you create shared channels with clients while keeping internal channels private.”
“Integrations: Extensive app ecosystem, including project management and CRM tools.”
“Choose Slack if client collaboration and ease of use are your biggest priorities.”
“Downside: More advanced workflows may require third-party automation tools or paid plans.”
“One caveat: Slack Connect shared channels generally require both organizations to have paid Slack plans, with some Enterprise exceptions.”
“2. Microsoft Teams Best for structured approvals”
“Automation: Approvals app and Power Automate for multi-step approval processes.”
“Client access: Invite external guests into specific Teams and channels.”
“Integrations: Excellent with Outlook, SharePoint, Excel, and Microsoft 365.”
“Choose Teams if your agency already relies on Microsoft 365 and formal approvals are particularly important.”
“Downside: Workflow setup can be more complicated, and Power Automate licensing and guest permissions need attention.”
“Automation: Apps, integrations, and Google Workspace automation through Apps Script and third-party tools.”
“Client access: External users can participate in eligible spaces.”
“Integrations: Strong with Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, and Calendar.”
“Downside: Less straightforward native no-code approval workflow building than Slack or Teams.”
“Automation: Integrations and custom workflow automation.”
“Client access: External collaboration can be configured with appropriate deployment and permissions.”
“Integrations: Flexible, particularly for technical teams.”
“Worth considering if data control or self-hosting is particularly important.”
“Downside: More administration and setup; less plug-and-play for a small agency.”