8 best very affordable tools that would enhance your productivity using Google drive, and help you optimize expenses associated with it.
Google Drive is a powerful tool for storing, sharing, and managing documents online. However, its true potential is unlocked when paired with the right apps that extend its functionality and enhance its efficiency.
Whether you’re a professional aiming to streamline workflows, or a small business looking to manage digital assets securely, integrating the right tools with Google Drive can transform how you interact with this platform. In this blog post, we’ll explore 8 must-have apps that are essential for anyone looking to take their Google Drive usage to the next level.
Table of Contents
How did we choose the apps
Our selection process for this post was quite straightforward: it was guided by a comprehensive evaluation process aimed at identifying tools that significantly improve user experience across various dimensions: productivity, collaboration, automation, and document management. The criteria for selection included integration capability with Google Drive, popularity and user feedback, unique features, and overall impact on workflow efficiency. We also consulted our Co-founder and CTO, Aravin Shrinivasan, who brings over 15 years of experience with Google products, to contribute and share his insights on the overall results.
Based on our careful selection, we came up with a list of 8 apps that would not only improve functionality but also enhance collaboration, security, and productivity, making your experience smoother and more efficient. So, let’s dive into how these tools can help you get the most out of Google Drive!
1. Backup and Sync from Google
Usage: Automatically sync files from your computer, camera, or SD cards to Google Drive and Google Photos.
Pricing: Free with a Google account. Google Drive storage plans start from $1.99 per month for 100 GB.
Download Link: Backup and Sync
Alternatives:
- Dropbox: Offers similar file syncing and backup features.
- Microsoft OneDrive: Integrated with Windows and offers automatic backup and syncing solutions.
2. DocuSign
Usage: Allows users to electronically sign documents and manage electronic agreements from anywhere.
Pricing: Plans start at $10 per month for the Personal plan.
Download Link: DocuSign
Alternatives:
- Adobe Sign: Offers similar e-signature services with integration to other Adobe products.
- SignNow: Another e-signature service known for its ease of use and cost-effectiveness.
3. Dropbox Sign (formerly HelloSign)
Usage: A great tool that allows to send, receive and manage legally binding electronic signatures..
Pricing: Free for 30 days; basic non-API plans start at $15 per month.
Download Link: DropboxSign
Alternatives:
- PandaDoc: Focuses on streamlining document workflow with electronic signatures.
- Zoho Sign: Part of the Zoho suite, offering secure and legally binding e-signatures.
4. Google Workspace
Usage: Expands Google Drive with collaborative business tools such as Gmail, Docs, Meet, and more.
Pricing: Basic plans start at $6 per user/month.
Download Link: Google Workspace
Alternatives:
- Microsoft 365: Offers Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office apps with powerful cloud integration.
- Zoho Workplace: A suite of office tools that provides an alternative to Google Workspace with similar features.
5. Zenphi
Usage: Specifically built for Google Workspace, Zenphi allows to automate any business process or operation using native Google Apps. It also contains a wide range of pre-built integrations with non-Google apps (like Jira, Azure, Trello, Asana, HubSpot and more). Zenphi helps to automate all operations around Google drive (Google Drive Automations Scenarios): file uploads and downloads, storage, naming, sorting, merging and so much more. All in no-code environment.
Pricing: free trial is available.
Download Link: Get started with Zenphi
Alternatives:
- Apps Script: allows to do everything Zenphi does but demands coding skills.
- ERP solutions: expensive enterprise-level solutions that allow users to build custom automated workflows to increase business process’ efficiency.
Check out these video tutorials on how to use Zenphi to enhance your Google drive experience.
Upload Mail Attachments To Google Drive Automatically
Zenphi Webinar: Optimize
Your Google Drive Usage & Costs
6. IFTTT
Usage: An integration platform that allows to connect multiple applications by creating conditional statements (applets). Integratable with Google Drive.
Pricing: Free for basic use; Pro plan starts at $3.99 per month.
Download Link: IFTTT
Alternatives:
- Microsoft Power Automate: Provides workflow automation across multiple applications and services.
- Elastic.io: Offers integration solutions for businesses.
7. Lucidchart
Usage: A visual workspace that includes diagramming, data visualization, and collaboration tools.
Pricing: Free limited version; paid plans start at $7.95 per month.
Download Link: Lucidchart
Alternatives:
- Microsoft Visio: A diagramming tool with deep integration into the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Draw.io (now diagrams.net): A free diagramming tool that integrates well with various online platforms.
8. Trello
Usage: A collaboration tool that organizes projects into boards, lists, and cards integrated with Google Drive.
Pricing: Free basic service; Business Class starts at $10 per user/month.
Download Link: Trello
Alternatives:
- Asana: A project management tool that helps teams track their work with a clear visual interface.
- Monday.com: Offers workflow streamlining with a focus on customization and automation.
Each of these apps can significantly enhance how you use Google Drive, making it more efficient and suited to your specific needs. Be sure to visit their respective websites for the most current pricing and features!
