Title: Slack - Tips and Pointers

Original CoS Document (slug): [[https://conventionofstates.com/slack-tips-and-pointers|slack-tips-and-pointers]]

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Created: 2022-06-24 16:09:20

Updated: 2022-09-14 08:57:34

Published: 2022-07-14 01:00:00

Converted: 2025-04-14T20:28:26.918650758


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For a full description of all the communications tools used by the Convention of States, please refer to the [[https://conventionofstates.com/files/cos-missouri-communications-tools-overview|Communications Tools Overview]] which is also linked to your Guidebook.

Slack is a secure cross between texting and emailing which is web-based and available in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. It works very well on smart phones but we suggest that you first download the app onto your desktop if you are going to use it on more than one device.\\


We are currently using the free version so the space available is limited. Unlike some programs which run out of space, older messages and files simply role off into oblivion. Please keep this in mind and use Slack to transfer files, pictures, etc. and not as a permanent storage facility.

A workspace is a named unit which you can create and invite others to join; or, you can be invited to join an existing one. A channel is a sub-unit within a workspace which allows for communication to the whole group or just designated persons. This helps to keep details private or to avoid wasting time for participants who are not involved in a particular subject.

When you see a hashtag to the left of a channel name it means that anyone on the workspace has access to it. The lock symbol next to a channel name means you must be invited to join.

[[http://www.slack.com|Slack's website]] does not provide training details. However, there are a few You Tube videos which are recommended:

[[https://youtu.be/pUZzBoAbAOs|Dottotech Slack Video]] by Steve Dotto (21.20)

[[https://youtu.be/o3HJuPaITWk|Slack for Beginners]] by Howfinity (12:12)

[[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gidx0Eux5m4UY3yViI9J5nxIU9LfuO5h/edit|Slack Best Practices (Google Document)]]

On the [[https://conventionofstates.com/tuesday-training|Tuesday Training Page]] there is a webinar about Slack which was presented by Monica Sellers on 6/21/22. Monica's training begins around minute 14 and this training explains how Slack fits into our project.

//**Suggestions:**//

  * When you add your picture to your Slack profile, use the same one as you use in your Citizen Builder account.
  * Set up each different workspace as a different color. Click on your Avatar/picture, choose //Preferences// and then choose //Themes.// Scroll down to choose your unique workspace color.
  * When contacting someone in your state it is best to use your state workspace even if you know they have a presence on another workspace. Most people check their state workspace frequently and the others as they have time.
  * Use Slack for the Convention of States project. If you do have something you feel you need to share to everyone which is not related to COS, please use the #random channel.

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