Firstly, WhatsApp has a few major issues:

• WhatsApp groups have hard limits on the number of members
• WhatsApp groups provide Admins with almost no control features
• WhatsApp groups struggle to handle large groups discussion multiple topics
• WhatsApp groups can only mute ALL comments, not just specific threads
• WhatsApp groups can only handle basic messaging and video calls are limited

'task360' makes use of the Discord platform, which is completely FREE, but has dozens of features that are essential for any active online community.

• 'task360' is managed by us, so all the admin is taken care of and our Helpdesk is available to assist. We can help Admins to retain control and increase the admin group to distribute the workload.
• Each Oil Company brand has a dedicated server and can accommodate thousands of members i.e. the entire network.
• Important topics can be handled in dedicated channels which allows relevant information to stay together and not get drowned out. And the search feature is a superpower.
• Each member can mute specific channels for topics they're not interested in, but they still keep access and they can still view all comments.
• Video calls, screenshare, meetings, working groups and teams can all get in touch with one click.

The groups that get the most value from 'task360' are where lively debate, information sharing and discussion happen. Fuel Retailers who have been in the industry for decades have a wealth of experience and wisdom to share and no place to do it. Networks lose valuable insights every year because there is no capable forum for capturing "war stories", best practices, tips and ideas.

Some users check in every day while others check in weekly or monthly. Whichever you choose, you can easily catch up with several different threads of conversations, exactly where you left off the last time.

Each group has different channels and some are more active than others. Channel topics include COVID-19, supplier information, back office system troubleshooting, safety & security (such as suspect vehicles and customers), wages, MIBCO, and many more.

'task360' is an effective community forum for sharing information quickly and easily. Besides active users, our team is also constantly on the lookout for information e.g. fuel price changes, industry reminders, news articles, etc. and we share them in dedicated channels daily.

Fuel Retailers need secure spaces, to discuss various topics and coordinate information. This helps them to troubleshoot issues that other Fuel Retailers may have faced and found solutions to. It also provides opportunity to share insights into margin optimization, regional and national discussion topics and more.

It also connects Fuel Retailers to each other and helps to prevent isolation and loss of community. This is especially relevant during lockdown and travel restrictions due to the pandemic.

'task360' provides for private channels and role permissions that allow working groups and committees to securely share information and discuss their mandated topics. All comments, files, agendas, minutes, etc. remain on the system which allow for easy handover from old group members to new members.

Most networks have Regional and National Fuel Retailer(Dealer) Councils, Advisory Councils or something similar. These Councils have to meet regularly and stay up to date on issues in their regions. Often they have to gather information and get up to date responses from other Fuel Retailers. This is always difficult and often results in Fuel Retailers from remote areas being excluded from critical discussions and meetings.

During the pandemic, this challenge is even more disruptive.

Fuel Retailers can use 'task360' to setup private channels for Council members. They can use the one-click video call features to setup meetings and discussions with other members very easily with no cumbersome meeting invites and invite links that don't work.

Councils can also facilitate their full member meeting with all Fuel Retailers in the region, even if there are hundreds of attendees. This can assist with shorter meetings and where meetings have to happen more often without dealing with travel logistics. 

Presenters can easily share their screen and talk through their slides, while attendees can post questions in a dedicated channel, which the presenter can answer after the presentation, without time constraints. Presenters can share their slide packs, videos and relevant marketing and/or product information on the channel. Everything remains available on the channel for reference after the meeting.

Councils can also use 'task360' for monthly or quarterly information sharing sessions, where Fuel Retailers are invited to share their experiences, advice and best practices.

'task360' is completely FREE. You can use the platform as needed and our Helpdesk will assist to create new channels, setup roles and permissions and more. Our communication team will post relevant industry information.

In the event that you require more help and support, especially during the setup phase for more complicated groups such as Fuel Retailer/Dealer Councils, we can assist at a special rate. Contact us to discuss your unique requirements and we can provide more detail.