Cultivating a collaborative culture at Nulab

In today’s global landscape, collaboration knows no bounds—it’s a force that defies distances and conquers time zones. At Nulab, we recognize the transformative power of having a collaborative culture, not just within close-knit teams but across international frontiers.

Our teams span continents and cultures, and we recognize collaboration as a dynamic catalyst for innovation. Embracing the challenges posed by geographical separation, we’ve turned them into opportunities to cultivate a unique and enriching collaborative culture.

We’ll share how Nulab leverages technology, embraces cultural diversity, and builds a collaborative culture that thrives on the richness of global perspectives.

What is collaborative culture?

Collaborative culture isn’t a buzzword at Nulab; it’s the lifeblood that propels us forward. But what does it truly mean?

Shared vision and values

At its core, a collaborative culture hinges on a shared vision and values. It’s about aligning individual goals with the collective mission. Nulab’s culture is a testament to how diverse talents harmonize under the banner of a common purpose—to make creating simple and enjoyable.

Open communication

Communication is the cornerstone of collaboration. In a collaborative culture, communication isn’t just a channel; it’s a dynamic exchange. Openness and active listening foster an environment where ideas flow freely, and every voice is heard.

Mutual trust and respect

Trust is the currency of collaboration. In a culture where trust prevails, team members feel empowered to take risks, share their perspectives, and collaborate without fear of judgment. Respect for diverse opinions enriches the collaborative tapestry.

Transparency

In a collaborative culture, transparency is a cornerstone. Teams openly share information, goals, and progress, fostering a sense of trust and inclusivity. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page, working towards shared success.

Flexibility and adaptability

Collaborative cultures embrace change with open arms. Flexibility and adaptability are not just virtues; they are embedded in the DNA of how we work. At Nulab, we understand that agility is key to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of global teamwork.

Celebrating successes, learning from failures

Successes are communal victories, and failures are shared lessons. A collaborative culture doesn’t just celebrate milestones; it learns from setbacks. It’s an acknowledgment that growth stems from collective experiences, both positive and challenging.

Team empowerment

In a collaborative culture, every team member is an integral part of the collective success. Empowerment isn’t just a concept; it’s a reality. Individuals are encouraged to contribute, take ownership, and know that their efforts ripple through the entire team.

Balancing independence and interdependence

Collaboration doesn’t mean sacrificing individuality. A robust collaborative culture strikes a balance between fostering individual brilliance and recognizing that the synergy of the team is greater than the sum of its parts.

Continuous learning and improvement

The journey doesn’t end; it evolves. A collaborative culture thrives on continuous learning and improvement. It’s a commitment to staying curious, embracing new ideas, and evolving together as a unified force.

At Nulab, collaborative culture is more than a set of principles; it’s a lived experience. It’s the warmth in virtual connections, the shared laughter in meetings, and the collective sighs of relief after overcoming challenges. It’s not just what we do; it’s who we are.

Creating collaborative cultures

Building a collaborative culture isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor; it’s a dynamic process that requires intention, effort, and a sprinkle of Nulab magic. Here’s how we cultivate an environment where collaboration thrives:

1. Leadership as collaborative catalysts

Leadership sets the tone. At Nulab, our leaders aren’t distant figures; they are collaborative catalysts. They lead by example, fostering an environment where collaboration isn’t a directive but a shared passion. Their openness and accessibility trickle down, shaping a culture where everyone feels heard and valued.

2. Communication as a bridge

Communication is the bridge that connects distant shores. In our collaborative culture, communication isn’t just a formality; it’s a lifeline. We leverage a mix of tools—from project management software to online diagramming tools—creating a seamless flow of ideas. Regular updates, virtual check-ins, and town halls keep everyone in the loop.

3. Empowering teams with technology

Collaborative cultures thrive on the right tools. Nulab’s suite of products isn’t just for external users; we’re our own biggest fans. Our teams utilize Cacoo for visually mapping ideas and virtual meetings over diagrams, and Backlog for project management and communication about tasks. These tools empower us to collaborate effortlessly, irrespective of geographical boundaries.

4. Fostering a sense of belonging

Collaboration flourishes when individuals feel a sense of belonging. Whether you’re in New York, Fukuoka, or anywhere in between, our culture is inclusive. We bridge gaps with initiatives like our General Meeting, where every Nulaber converges in Fukuoka. It’s a celebration of our global family—a time to connect, share, and strengthen our collective bond.

5. Celebrating diversity of thought

Collaborative cultures thrive on diverse perspectives. We celebrate the diversity of thought that emerges from our global team. Every idea, no matter its origin, is a valuable piece of the puzzle. It’s this mosaic of perspectives that shapes our innovative approach to problem-solving.

6. Balancing virtual and physical collaboration

While digital collaboration is a cornerstone, we understand the power of face-to-face interactions. We host meet-ups and events, get together for holiday celebrations, plan team dinners and happy hours, and occasionally even work in the same co-working space. We balance virtual collaboration with opportunities for physical connection, fostering camaraderie beyond screens.

7. Continuous learning and adaptation

Creating a collaborative culture is an ongoing journey. We embrace continuous learning and adaptation. Feedback loops, retrospectives, and a commitment to improvement ensure that our collaborative culture evolves with the ever-changing dynamics of remote and global work. One of our company’s perks is free books.

8. Encouraging autonomy and ownership

Collaboration doesn’t mean micromanagement. In our culture, autonomy and ownership are encouraged. Teams have the freedom to chart their course, make decisions, and contribute to the collective success. It’s about balancing the collective spirit with individual empowerment.

9. Recognition and appreciation

A collaborative culture thrives on appreciation. Regular shoutouts, recognition of achievements, and celebrating milestones create a positive atmosphere. It’s not just about the big wins; it’s about acknowledging the daily efforts that collectively shape our success.

10. Nurturing a growth mindset

A growth mindset fuels collaboration. We cultivate an environment where challenges are viewed as opportunities to learn. It’s a mindset that embraces innovation, values resilience, and propels us forward collectively.

At Nulab, creating a collaborative culture isn’t a checkbox; it’s a living commitment. It’s about fostering an environment where collaboration isn’t just a practice; it’s a way of being—one that resonates across borders, time zones, and screens.

Collaborative culture examples

Wondering what a thriving collaborative culture looks like in action? Let’s delve into some real-life examples from Nulab’s playbook:

1. Cross-functional collaboration in product development

Our product development teams exemplify cross-functional collaboration. Engineers, designers, and marketers seamlessly come together to ideate, plan, and execute. The collaborative spirit ensures that each product isn’t just a result of technical prowess but a fusion of diverse expertise.

2. Global brainstorming sessions

In a company spanning multiple continents, collaboration knows no borders. We conduct global brainstorming sessions, leveraging technology to bridge geographical gaps. Ideas can spark in New York, get refined in Fukuoka, and receive input from Amsterdam—all in real time.

3. Inclusive decision-making

Decision-making isn’t a top-down process; it’s a collective endeavor. Our leaders actively seek input from team members across the globe. Whether it’s deciding on a new feature or charting the course for the upcoming year, everyone’s voice is not just heard but actively valued.

4. Virtual onboarding introductions

Remote work can feel isolating, but not in a remote culture built on collaboration. We’ve infused virtual onboarding meets to personally greet every new hire and get to know them when they start. It’s not just about work—it’s about connecting on a personal level, sharing stories, and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

5. Collaboration across time zones

Working across time zones isn’t a challenge; it’s an opportunity. We’ve embraced collaboration across different time zones, setting up workflows that ensure continuity. It’s about understanding the rhythm of a global team and making it a strength rather than a hurdle.

These collaborative culture examples aren’t anecdotes; they are woven into the fabric of Nulab. They showcase a culture where collaboration isn’t a buzzword; it’s a lived experience that enriches our work, relationships, and the way we navigate the global landscape.

Facilitating collaboration: the vital role of HR

Human Resources (HR) plays a pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining a collaborative culture within a global organization. At Nulab, we understand that fostering effective collaboration goes beyond digital tools—it requires a people-centric approach.

Building Bridges Across Teams: HR serves as the architect, designing bridges that connect diverse teams spread across the globe. Through strategic initiatives, HR professionals facilitate cross-cultural understanding, ensuring that every voice is heard, regardless of geographical location.

Nurturing Inclusivity: In a global environment, HR becomes the guardian of inclusivity, fostering a workplace where every individual, regardless of their location, feels valued and heard. By promoting diversity and celebrating different perspectives, HR creates an environment where collaboration flourishes naturally.

In essence, HR at Nulab plays a crucial role in sculpting a collaborative culture that transcends physical boundaries, making our global team stronger, more connected, and collectively empowered.

Unleash the power of collaboration

As we navigate the evolving landscape of modern work, the significance of a collaborative culture becomes increasingly evident. Beyond geographical distances and diverse time zones, the essence of collaboration at Nulab defines our strength. Through shared values, inclusive practices, and the embrace of technology, we’ve woven a tapestry of collaboration that transcends boundaries.

Our suite of collaboration tools, including Cacoo and Backlog, plays a pivotal role in this journey. From visually mapping ideas to seamlessly managing projects, our tools mirror the collaborative ethos we champion. As you explore your collaborative endeavors, consider the transformative impact technology can have. At Nulab, our tools aren’t just products; they’re enablers of global synergy, empowering teams to achieve more together. Together, we shape the future of work, one collaborative step at a time.

This post was originally published on September 5, 2019, and updated most recently on December 6, 2023.