Ryver - Detailed Review
Communication Tools
Ryver - Product Overview
Ryver Overview
Ryver is a comprehensive team collaboration and communication tool that streamlines various aspects of team interaction into a single application. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
Ryver is designed to centralize team communication, collaboration, and task management. It replaces the need for multiple apps and email by integrating features such as messaging, voice and video calls, task management, and file sharing into one platform.
Target Audience
Ryver is targeted at teams of all sizes, including small businesses, large enterprises, and organizations that need to collaborate with various stakeholders such as employees, vendors, advisors, investors, and even customers. The average Ryver team size is around 81 users, indicating its scalability and suitability for both small and large teams.
Key Features
Messaging and Communication
Ryver offers 1-1 and group messaging, as well as voice and video calls with screen sharing. This allows teams to have quick conversations, share files, and engage in topic-oriented discussions.
Task Management
The platform enables users to turn conversations into actionable tasks, track progress with checklists, and manage projects efficiently.
File Sharing
Unlimited file sharing is available, and users can share files directly from Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box.com.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
Ryver supports SSO using existing Active Directory or SAML-based credentials from services like Google G-Suite, Okta, and OnePassword, enhancing security and reducing password reset requests.
Integrations
Ryver integrates with over 2,000 other apps through Zapier and allows custom integrations using APIs and webhooks. This includes features like receiving social media posts, news articles, and RSS feed content directly within the app.
Security
All communication is encrypted using SSL connections protected by 256-bit RSA encryption, and data at rest is stored in encrypted DB files. Ryver also utilizes Amazon’s AWS cloud services security features, including 2-factor authentication.
Overall, Ryver aims to simplify team communication and collaboration by providing a comprehensive and affordable solution that meets the needs of diverse team sizes and structures.
Ryver - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Ryver is crafted to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for teams to collaborate and manage their tasks efficiently.
Interface Layout
Ryver’s interface has undergone a refresh to improve usability. The new layout uses a left-to-right navigation flow, eliminating the top header and making the left navigation bar the primary anchor. This change streamlines the user experience by keeping all important UI elements clearly visible and related to the content area. The CHAT, TOPICS, and TASKS tabs are now more prominent, reducing the likelihood of new users missing these critical features.
Key Features and Sections
- Chat: Ryver combines real-time chat for immediate communication with the option to switch to more organized posts and topics. This dual approach helps in managing both urgent and detailed discussions effectively.
- Posts: Similar to social media posts, these allow for more thoughtful and focused communication within teams. Posts support attachments, threaded conversations via comments, and simple formatting options like bold and bullet points.
- Tasks: Users can create, assign, and manage tasks directly within conversations, promoting accountability and clarity among team members.
- Forums and Teams: Forums are topic-based group communication areas, while teams are invite-only groups with their own chat, posts, and files. This structure helps in organizing discussions and resources based on specific topics or projects.
Ease of Use
Ryver is praised for its ease of use, with many users transitioning from other platforms like Slack and finding it quick to set up and use. The platform is designed to be functional and accessible, with all features in plain sight, making it possible to start using it within minutes.
Customization and Notifications
Users can customize their workspace with flexible notification settings, ensuring they receive relevant and timely alerts without unnecessary distractions. The platform also supports third-party integrations, allowing users to customize their environment according to their specific needs.
Mobile Experience
While Ryver’s desktop version is highly functional, the mobile version may lack some features, potentially limiting on-the-go productivity. However, the overall mobile experience is still user-friendly and supports key functionalities.
User Feedback
Users generally appreciate Ryver’s intuitive design and comprehensive features. Feedback highlights the platform’s ability to streamline communication and task management, making it easier for teams to stay aligned and productive. Some users mention a slight learning curve, but overall, the transition to Ryver is often described as smooth and beneficial.
Conclusion
In summary, Ryver’s user interface is designed to be intuitive, with a clear and organized layout that makes it easy for teams to communicate and manage tasks. The platform’s ease of use, combined with its comprehensive features and customizable settings, contributes to a positive overall user experience.
Ryver - Key Features and Functionality
Ryver Overview
Ryver is a comprehensive communication and collaboration tool that integrates several key features to enhance team productivity and efficiency. Here are the main features and how they work:
Chat and Messaging
Ryver offers unlimited chat functionality, allowing users to engage in direct messages, group discussions, and topic-focused conversations. Users can create teams for invite-only private discussions or forums for open, company-wide discussions. This feature is ideal for organizing conversations by function, such as teams for sales or customer service.
Task Management
One of Ryver’s unique features is its ability to turn conversations into actionable tasks. These tasks are displayed in a kanban board style, allowing users to easily move, assign, and track them. Users can create unlimited tasks, team boards, and personal boards, and add granularity with checklists and tags. This integration of chat and task management streamlines project management and ensures that discussions lead to actionable outcomes.
Voice and Video Calls
Ryver includes voice and video call functionality, allowing for unlimited calls with up to five users. Joining a call can be done with a single click from the chat box. This feature supports screen sharing, making it suitable for internal team conference calls and collaborative work sessions.
File Sharing and Integrations
Users can share files directly from Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box.com. Ryver also integrates with thousands of other apps using Zapier, provided the user has a Zapier account. Additionally, Ryver offers its own API and webhooks for custom integrations and bots, enabling features like instant notifications for sales leads, customer service tickets, and IT ChatOps.
Security and Authentication
Ryver emphasizes security with SSL connections protected by 256-bit RSA encryption for all communication. Data at rest is stored in encrypted database files. The platform also supports Single Sign-On (SSO) through Active Directory, Google G-Suite, Okta, and OnePassword, which helps in strengthening regulation compliance and reducing password reset requests.
AI Integration
While Ryver itself does not have built-in AI features, it can be integrated with AI tools through Zapier. For example, integrating Ryver with AI by Zapier allows users to automate tasks such as analyzing and returning data from chat messages. This can be set up without any coding, using triggers and actions to automate workflows. This integration can help in extracting, summarizing, and transforming data using leading AI models.
Search Functionality and Organization
Ryver offers unlimited search functionality, making it easy to find past conversations, files, and tasks. The platform allows for organizing conversations into topics, forums, and private groups, which helps in keeping track of different discussions and ensuring that information is easily accessible.
Conclusion
In summary, Ryver is a versatile tool that combines communication, task management, and collaboration features into one platform, with the option to integrate AI-driven automation through third-party services like Zapier. This makes it a powerful solution for teams looking to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity.
Ryver - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating Ryver’s Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of Ryver in the communication tools category involves examining its key features, user feedback, and any identified limitations.
Performance
Ryver is praised for its comprehensive suite of collaboration tools, all integrated into a single app. Here are some highlights:
- Group Messaging and Task Management: Ryver allows teams to engage in 1-1 and group messaging, and it can turn conversations into actionable tasks. This feature is highly appreciated for its ability to keep projects on track and reduce clutter.
- Voice and Video Calls: Although still in beta, Ryver’s voice and video calling feature supports up to five users per call and includes screen sharing, which is noted for its clarity and ease of use.
- File Sharing and Integration: Users can share files directly from Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box.com, and Ryver integrates with over 2,000 other apps via Zapier, making it highly versatile.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Ryver supports SSO with Active Directory or SAML-based credentials, simplifying the login process.
User Feedback and Accuracy
User reviews and testimonials indicate a high level of satisfaction with Ryver’s performance:
- Communication and Collaboration: Users have reported significant improvements in team communication and collaboration. For example, one company saw a reduction in internal email by over 75% and a decrease in the number of meetings.
- Task Management: The task management feature is particularly praised for its effectiveness in turning conversations into actions and tracking progress.
- Support: Premium support is available, which includes phone, email, and chat-based support, contributing to the overall positive user experience.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While Ryver is well-regarded, there are some areas where it could improve:
- Beta Features: The voice and video calling feature is still in beta, which might indicate some ongoing development and potential for instability or bugs.
- Cost: Ryver does not offer a free version, and the starting price is $69 per month, which could be a barrier for smaller teams or individuals.
- User Reviews Variability: Some reviews mention that while Ryver is a solid tool, it may not offer compelling value compared to other similar products like Slack. However, these opinions are not universal and may depend on specific user needs.
Data Safety and Accuracy
Ryver ensures data safety through robust encryption and secure data storage practices:
- Encryption: All communication uses an SSL connection protected by 256-bit RSA encryption, and data at rest is stored in encrypted DB files.
- Data Storage: Ryver uses strictly-regulated data storage through Amazon’s AWS cloud services security features, ensuring high standards of data protection.
Conclusion
In summary, Ryver performs well in terms of its comprehensive collaboration features, user satisfaction, and data safety measures. However, it has some limitations, such as the beta status of certain features and the lack of a free version, which could be areas for future improvement.
Ryver - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Plans
Ryver offers several pricing plans to cater to different team sizes and needs.Starter Plan
- Cost: $69 per month (or $34.50 per month for the first 3 months)
- Users: Up to 12 users
- Features:
- Unlimited chat and file sharing
- Task management with personal and group task boards
- Unlimited voice and video calls (up to 5 users per call)
- Screen sharing
- Unlimited storage
- Webhook integrations
- iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows apps
- Import from Slack, HipChat, and Trello
- Personal and group task managers
- Configurable navigation bar and forums
Plan for 30 Users
- Cost: $129 per month
- Users: Up to 30 users
- Features: All features from the Starter Plan, with no additional limitations mentioned.
Plan for 50 Users and Above
- Cost:
- $199 per month for up to 50 users
- $399 per month for up to 100 users
- $1,999 per month for up to 500 users
- $3,999 per month for up to 1,000 users
- Users: Varies according to the plan chosen
- Features: All features from the previous plans, with no additional limitations mentioned.
Enterprise Plan
- Cost: Custom pricing for teams with more than 30 users
- Users: More than 30 users
- Features:
- All features from the previous plans
- Additional features such as Single Sign-On (SSO)
- Premium support
- Advanced group management
- Dedicated testing sandbox
- Customizable features and workflow automation
Free Trial and Free Plan
- Free Trial: Available for 14 days. No credit card is required upfront, and you will only be charged when the trial expires.
- Free Plan: There is no free plan available for Ryver. Previously, Ryver had a free plan, but it was discontinued in 2018.
Key Features Across Plans
- Group Messaging: Unlimited chat, topics, and file sharing.
- Task Management: Unlimited tasks, team and personal task boards, and detailed task features.
- Voice & Video Calls: Unlimited calls (up to 5 users per call) with screen sharing.
- Integrations: Integrations via Zapier, webhooks, and direct integration with services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Box.com.
- Device Access: Available on computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Ryver - Integration and Compatibility
Ryver Overview
Ryver, an all-in-one collaboration and productivity tool, offers a variety of integration options and ensures compatibility across different platforms and devices, making it a versatile choice for teams.
Integrations
Ryver provides several ways to integrate with other tools and services:
Custom Integrations
Ryver allows you to create custom integrations using REST APIs and both Inbound and Outbound Webhooks. These integrations can be associated with a special “integration user” that has its own authentication tokens, separate from regular users. This ensures continuity even if the user associated with the integration leaves the organization.
Zapier Integrations
Through Zapier, Ryver can be integrated with over 2,000 other applications. You can create custom “zaps” to automate workflows between Ryver and other tools, choosing from thousands of existing zaps or creating your own.
Compatibility Across Platforms
Web Client
Ryver’s web client has been modernized with updated backend services, ensuring faster and more efficient performance. The platform now uses Amazon Web Services servers for enhanced speed and reliability.
Mobile Apps
Ryver offers revamped mobile apps for both iOS and Android users. For Android, users need to delete the old app, clear the cache, and then download the new app from the Google Play Store. The new Android app is universally available, although it officially supports only the two latest Android versions (6.0 and 5.x).
Android Version Support
Ryver does not support Android versions older than 4.4 KitKat. This decision is due to the difficulty in maintaining support for older platforms and the relatively low usage of such versions.
Groups and Teams
Ryver has renamed “Teams” to “Groups” and is enhancing the functionality of these groups. This change is part of the broader updates aimed at improving the platform’s performance and user interface.
Additional Features
Screen Sharing and Voice/Video Calls
Ryver is currently in beta for screen sharing, voice, and video calls, all integrated within the same platform. This makes it a comprehensive solution for team communication and collaboration.
Task Management and Topics
Ryver includes unlimited chat, task management, and topics, making it a one-stop solution for managing various aspects of team collaboration.
Conclusion
In summary, Ryver offers extensive integration capabilities through custom APIs, webhooks, and Zapier, ensuring it can be seamlessly integrated with a wide range of tools. It also maintains strong compatibility across web and mobile platforms, although it has specific requirements for Android version support.
Ryver - Customer Support and Resources
When you need support or additional resources for Ryver, there are several convenient and efficient options available to you.
Contacting Support
If you have questions, are experiencing issues, or need assistance, you can reach out to Ryver’s support team in multiple ways:Live Chat
Click on the blue “Chat” button on the Ryver support site to initiate a live chat with a Ryver Product Specialist. This service is generally available from 8am – 4pm Pacific Standard Time.Feedback
You can also send feedback directly from within the Ryver app by selecting the “Send Feedback” option from the Help Icon next to the Ryver Logo at the top of the Navigation Bar.Additional Support Channels
For more immediate or complex issues, Ryver offers:Phone or Google Hangout
While phone support is not the primary method for opening an issue, if your situation requires it, the support team can switch to a phone call or Google Hangout after initial contact via chat or email.Resources
To help you get the most out of Ryver, several resources are available:Admin Getting Started Guide
This guide is specifically for administrators and covers how to get your team up and running, as well as how to maximize the use of Ryver’s features.Support Site
You can visit the Ryver support site for detailed guides, FAQs, and other helpful information.Social Media
You can also reach out to Ryver on Twitter at `@RyverApp` for support and inquiries.Premium Support for Enterprise Users
For users of the Ryver Enterprise edition, there is an added layer of support:Premium Support
This includes immediate help when you need it, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly. These support options and resources are designed to ensure you can use Ryver efficiently and effectively, addressing any questions or issues you might have. Ryver - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Ryver
Ryver offers several significant advantages that make it a compelling choice for team collaboration and communication:All-in-One App
Ryver consolidates various communication and collaboration tools into a single app, including group messaging, voice and video calls, task management, and file sharing. This integration simplifies team communication and reduces the need for multiple apps and emails.Comprehensive Feature Set
The platform includes a wide range of features such as screen sharing, topic discussion channels, search functionality, and workflow automation. These features help teams to communicate effectively, manage tasks, and automate everyday business processes.Task Management
Ryver allows users to turn conversations into actionable tasks and track them using progress boards and integrated checklists. This feature helps in converting discussions into tangible actions and keeps the team on track.Single Sign-On (SSO) and Security
Ryver offers SSO login, which simplifies the login process and enhances security. Additionally, it provides advanced data security measures, ensuring that team data is well-protected.Premium Support and Integrations
Users have access to premium support, which ensures immediate help when needed. Ryver also integrates with over 2,000 other apps through Zapier, allowing for seamless connectivity with other tools and services.User Feedback and Impact
Several users and organizations have reported positive experiences with Ryver, noting reductions in internal email, fewer meetings, and improved team communication and collaboration. For example, Dignity Health and Efficio have seen significant improvements in their communication and collaboration processes.Disadvantages of Ryver
While Ryver offers many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:Cost
Ryver does not offer a free version, and the starting price is $69 per month. This could be a barrier for smaller teams or organizations with limited budgets.Limited Free Trial Information
Although a free trial is available, there is limited information on the duration and scope of the trial, which might make it difficult for potential users to fully evaluate the product before committing to a purchase.User Reviews
Some users have provided mixed reviews. For instance, one reviewer described Ryver as “an okay chat product that lacks compelling value,” suggesting that it may not meet all the needs or expectations of every user.No Custom Pricing for Small Teams
The pricing model may not be flexible enough for smaller teams, as it is geared more towards larger organizations and enterprises. In summary, Ryver is a powerful tool for team collaboration, offering a wide range of features and integrations that can significantly enhance communication and productivity. However, its cost and lack of a free version might be deterrents for some potential users. Ryver - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of Ryver
- All-in-One Platform: Ryver stands out by integrating multiple functionalities such as group messaging, task management, and voice/video calling into a single platform. This allows teams to turn conversations into actionable tasks seamlessly.
- Task Management: Ryver’s task management feature is particularly noteworthy, enabling teams to create unlimited tasks and use team and personal task boards. This feature is tightly integrated with the chat functionality, making it easy to convert discussions into tasks.
- Integration Capabilities: Ryver offers extensive integration options, including direct integration with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Box.com, as well as connections to over 2,000 other apps via Zapier. It also supports custom inbound and outbound webhooks and bots.
- Security and Scalability: Ryver ensures data safety with robust encryption and strictly regulated data storage through Amazon’s AWS cloud services. It also offers unlimited collaboration features, making it scalable for teams of any size.
Competitors and Alternatives
Slack
- User Interface: Slack is known for its more organized and cleaner user interface compared to Ryver, which can sometimes feel heavy and complicated.
- Pricing: Slack offers a free plan with limited features, as well as paid plans starting at $7.25 per user per month. Ryver’s pricing starts at $69 per team per month for the starter plan.
- Notifications: Slack provides more advanced notification settings, including keyword alerts and @mentions, which are not available in Ryver.
Microsoft Office 365
- Market Share: Microsoft Office 365 has a significant market share in the communication category, with 18.67% compared to Ryver’s much smaller share.
- Integration: Office 365 integrates well with other Microsoft tools, which can be a strong point for teams already using Microsoft products. However, Ryver’s integration capabilities through Zapier are also extensive.
Whatsapp Business
- Market Share: Whatsapp Business dominates the communication category with a 40.99% market share, but it is more focused on messaging rather than the all-in-one collaboration features offered by Ryver.
- Features: Whatsapp Business lacks the task management and voice/video calling features that Ryver provides.
G Suite
- Project Collaboration: In the project collaboration category, G Suite has a significant market share of 83.72%, offering a suite of tools that include Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets. Ryver, while capable in project collaboration, does not match G Suite’s breadth of tools.
Other Considerations
- User Base: Ryver is used by a diverse range of companies, including those in software development, digital marketing, and marketing. It is popular among teams with 20-49 employees, 100-249 employees, and 250-499 employees.
- Geographical Distribution: Ryver’s users are predominantly based in the United States, followed by the United Kingdom and Canada.
In summary, Ryver’s unique integration of task management and communication features makes it a strong contender in the market. However, its interface can be less intuitive compared to alternatives like Slack, and it faces stiff competition from established players like Microsoft Office 365 and G Suite. Ultimately, the choice between Ryver and its competitors will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the team.
Ryver - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Ryver
What are the key features of Ryver?
Ryver offers a wide range of features to enhance team collaboration. These include group messaging, voice and video conferencing, screen sharing, task management, Single Sign-On (SSO), topic discussion channels, unlimited file sharing, and advanced search functionality. Additionally, Ryver allows users to convert conversations into tasks, assign people to tasks, and set due dates, all within a single app.How much does Ryver cost?
Ryver’s pricing is structured based on the number of users. The Starter plan costs $69 per month for up to 12 users, with a discounted rate of $34.50 per month for the first three months. For larger teams, the prices are $129 per month for up to 30 users, $199 per month for up to 50 users, and so on. Enterprise plans are also available for larger organizations.Is there a free trial available for Ryver?
Yes, Ryver offers a 14-day free trial. You do not need to provide your credit card information upfront, and you will only be charged when the trial period expires.Can I upgrade my Ryver plan?
To upgrade your Ryver plan, the organization’s admin user can click the “Upgrade!” button on the user menu inside the Ryver app. This allows you to switch to a higher-tier plan as your team grows or if you need additional features.What is the storage and file-sharing capacity on Ryver?
Ryver provides unlimited file sharing and storage, regardless of the plan you choose. This means you can share and store as many files as needed without any additional costs.Does Ryver support integration with other tools and services?
Yes, Ryver integrates with various tools and services. It allows webhook integrations, import options from Slack, HipChat, and Trello, and also includes an Outlook plug-in. Additionally, Ryver offers workflow automation and SSO login to streamline your team’s collaboration.How does Ryver compare to other collaboration tools like Slack?
Ryver is often compared to Slack due to its similar functionality but with some key differences. Ryver offers flat-rate pricing, which can be more cost-effective for larger teams. Unlike Slack, Ryver provides unlimited chat search, file sharing, and storage even in its basic plans. Ryver also integrates team communication and task management more seamlessly within a single app.What kind of support does Ryver offer?
Ryver provides premium support for its users, especially in the Enterprise plan. This includes immediate help when needed, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly to maintain productivity.Can I automate workflows and tasks in Ryver?
Yes, Ryver offers workflow automation powered by its proprietary Active Response Technology™ (ART). This technology automates everyday business processes and ensures that follow-up instructions and task assignments are delivered automatically when predetermined events occur.Is Ryver secure?
Ryver emphasizes enhanced data security. It includes features such as configurable private teams, secure file sharing, and other security measures to protect your team’s data.Can I use Ryver on multiple platforms?
Yes, Ryver is available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows. This allows your team to stay connected and collaborate from any device. Ryver - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Ryver
Ryver is a comprehensive team collaboration tool that stands out in the communication tools category, particularly for its all-in-one approach to team communication, task management, and integration capabilities.
Key Features
- Communication: Ryver offers unlimited messaging, including group chats, private conversations, and one-on-one interactions. It also supports voice and video calls with up to five users per call, complete with screen sharing.
- Task Management: One of Ryver’s standout features is its task management system, which allows users to turn conversations into actionable tasks. This includes unlimited tasks, team and personal task boards, and detailed task specifications.
- File Sharing and Integration: Users can share files directly from Google Drive, Dropbox, or Box.com. Additionally, Ryver can be integrated with over 2,000 other apps via Zapier, and custom integrations can be created using webhooks and bots.
- Security: Ryver ensures data safety through SSL connections protected by 256-bit RSA encryption and encrypted DB files. It also uses Amazon’s AWS cloud services security features, including 2-factor authentication.
Who Would Benefit Most
Ryver is particularly beneficial for teams and organizations looking to streamline their communication and collaboration processes. Here are some groups that would benefit most:
- Distributed Teams: Companies with team members scattered across different locations can greatly benefit from Ryver’s unified communication platform, which keeps all communication and tasks in one place.
- Medium to Large-Sized Businesses: Organizations that need to manage multiple projects and teams can use Ryver to organize conversations, assign tasks, and share files efficiently.
- Teams Requiring Task Management: Any team that needs to turn discussions into actionable tasks will find Ryver’s task management features highly useful.
Overall Recommendation
Ryver is a solid choice for teams seeking an all-in-one collaboration tool that simplifies communication, task management, and file sharing. Here are some key reasons to consider Ryver:
- Simplicity and Affordability: Ryver is designed to be easy to use and affordable, making it a viable alternative to using multiple apps and email for team communication.
- Comprehensive Features: With its range of features, including unlimited messaging, task management, voice and video calls, and extensive integration capabilities, Ryver can replace several other tools, reducing the clutter and complexity of using multiple platforms.
- Strong Security Measures: Ryver’s commitment to data security through encryption and secure cloud services ensures that your team’s data is well-protected.
In summary, Ryver is an excellent option for any team looking to centralize their communication, streamline task management, and enhance overall collaboration efficiency. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive features, and strong security measures make it a valuable tool for teams of all sizes.