Is online collaboration overrated?

Are online whiteboards too complex?

Miro presents itself as a versatile online whiteboard for teams, promising seamless collaboration and endless templates along with other tightly packed features.

But does this make it a must-have or just overwhelming?

This week, we cover:

• What is Miro and its features

• What sets it apart?

• Is it overwhelming?

• Final verdict

Read Time: 2.5 minutes

Core Features
Focus on collaboration 🔎

At its core, Miro offers drag-and-drop whiteboards, with a focus on real-time collaboration. The aim is to allow teams to brainstorm, plan projects, and map out workflows with ease. The platform offers integrations with tools like Slack, Asana, and Jira, extending its utility into existing workflows. Customizable sticky notes, diagrams, and voting systems also add flexibility.

While it’s packed with tools, beginners may find it overwhelming. It’s great for team collaboration but less suited for solo use unless you love creating diagrams just for yourself.

Miro Upgrade
Is it worth upgrading? 💵

Miro’s free version includes three whiteboards and access to core features, which work for basic brainstorming or personal projects. By shelling out 10 USD a month, the paid plan unlocks unlimited boards, advanced templates, and integrations, making them ideal for teams managing complex projects.

In terms of performance, Miro runs smoothly, provided your internet connection holds up. It’s particularly effective for remote teams, offering real-time feedback and interaction. However, for teams already juggling multiple tools, its steep learning curve might slow initial adoption.

The alternatives
How does it compare? 🥇

Miro faces competition from tools like Microsoft Whiteboard, and FigJam. Microsoft Whiteboard integrates seamlessly with Office 365, making it a better fit for teams already in the Microsoft ecosystem. FigJam by Figma, on the other hand, rivals Miro with a cleaner interface and similar collaboration tools.

Miro shines in its breadth of functionality, but if you’re looking for simplicity or tighter integration with existing platforms, alternatives might be a better choice.

Limitations
When things get overcomplicated📉

Miro’s vast functionality can be a double-edged sword. Custom templates require some manual effort to set up, and the sheer number of tools can feel overwhelming for new users. Its internet dependency means no offline access, which is a dealbreaker for some teams.

Pricing for larger teams can add up quickly, especially when compared to simpler alternatives. Sticker history—a feature many users rely on—feels limited, which can frustrate teams managing evolving projects. While Miro is powerful, it’s not without its trade-offs.

Final verdict
Collaboration, With a Catch ⚖️

Miro does offer a highly collaborative platform, allowing brainstorming and project mapping for teams that thrive on visual workflows. Its integration options and extensive template library make it highly versatile.

However, its steep learning curve, dependency on stable internet, and pricing may deter smaller teams or casual users. If you need a robust tool for team collaboration and can justify the cost, Miro is worth considering—just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve.

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If you have feedback or new tools that you’d like to share, please let us know by sending an email to [email protected].

See you next week :)