Anheuser-Busch InBev and Del Papa Distributing

collaboration tools

The tool: Telepresence

The scoop: Portell, the Kearney analyst, points to Del Papa and InBev as examples of infusing collaboration tools into company culture.

"It isn't technology for technology's sake," Portell said.

Texas-based Del Papa Distributing, which delivers 10 million cases of beer annually from 30 suppliers, has 375 employees spread across three offices. Staffers were often forced to drive back and forth to attend meetings or present proposals.

When Del Papa built a 27-acre headquarters in 2014, the company installed a variety of tools -- including immersive audio and video equipment -- to cut down on commuting time. Both companies now use telepresence to conduct sales presentations, performance reviews and meetings.

"They didn't try to horn it in where it didn't fit," Portell said. "It works because the expectation is that you'll use the tool; it's part of doing business every day. So it's embedded into the culture in a way that some other companies can't match."

First published October 27, 2016: 8:28 AM ET

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