Connecting Google Drive to your Slack workspace provides a seamless way for your team to access, share, and collaborate on files stored in Google Drive, all without leaving Slack.
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Benefits of Connecting Google Drive and Slack
Here are some of the key benefits of integrating Google Drive with Slack:
1. Access Google Drive Files in Slack
Once connected, you can access, preview, and share Google Drive files directly in Slack channels and conversations. This eliminates the need to switch between multiple apps.
2. Real-Time Collaboration
Team members can discuss ideas, give feedback, and iterate on Google Drive docs, sheets, and slides in real-time while the conversations remain in context in Slack.
3. Enhanced Search
Google Drive files shared in Slack become searchable across public and private channels, allowing you to quickly find the information you need.
4. Notifications
Get notified in Slack when someone shares a new Google Drive file with you or makes a comment on a file you have access to.
How to Connect Google Drive to Slack
Connecting Google Drive to Slack only takes a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Install Google Drive Slack App
Go to your Slack workspace and click on the Apps icon on the left sidebar. Search for “Google Drive” and click on it. On the next screen, click the “Add to Slack” button.
Install Google Drive Slack App
2. Authenticate Google Drive
You will be redirected to authenticate your Google account. Select the account you want to link and click “Allow” to permit the Slack app access.
3. Connect Individual Google Drive Accounts
Once installed, each member needs to connect their own Google Drive account to start accessing files from Slack. Go to Apps > Google Drive > Connect Google Drive and follow prompts.
To share a Google Drive file, simply paste the link into any channel or DM. The file preview will appear along with options to take further actions.
Key Features
Here are some of the useful things you can do once Google Drive is connected to Slack:
Create New Google Files
Use slash commands like /gdrive create doc to instantly create new Google Docs, Sheets or Slides without leaving Slack.
Search Files
Quickly search for Google Drive files shared across public and private Slack channels and conversations from one place.
Preview Files
See a thumbnail preview of docs, slides, sheets along with key details like title and sharing access when you share a Google Drive link in Slack.
Real-Time Notifications
Get notified when someone shares a Google file with you or makes a comment on a file you already have access to.
Mobile Access
Seamlessly access your Google Drive content from Slack mobile apps without any loss in functionality.
Tips for Effective Use
Here are some tips to help your team get the most out of this integration:
- Share files related to specific projects in relevant channels for easy discoverability
- Pin important Google Drive files for quick access
- Set up notifications for activity on key files
- Use Slack conversations to discuss feedback and ideas on Google files
- Search for files in Slack before creating duplicates in Drive
Integrating Slack with Google Drive brings the best of both tools together in a powerful combination that enhances transparency, collaboration, and productivity for teams. Give it a try and see your teamwork reach new heights!
