Slack, a communication platform, is transforming into a new operating system for the workplace. It has launched an App Directory, featuring over 150 apps integrated into Slack, and an $80 million fund to invest in new apps. The platform is also introducing a new framework for developers, called Botkit, which simplifies the creation of apps.
The App Directory includes apps such as Google Drive, Trello, and Twitter, categorised into sections like design, marketing, and office management. The $80 million fund, backed by venture capital firms, is dedicated to encouraging developers to create more apps for Slack.
Botkit, developed by Howdy, is a set of tools for developers to build apps. It provides a simplified framework, making it easier for developers to create apps for Slack. With these developments, Slack is becoming more than just a communication platform; it’s becoming an operating system for work.
The company is focusing on bots as a way to automate tasks and increase productivity. Slack believes that bots can handle many tasks, such as scheduling meetings or ordering lunch, more efficiently than humans. Bots are seen as the future of the platform, with the potential to significantly transform the way we work.
Go to source article: http://thenextweb.com/insider/2016/03/16/slack-new-os-workplace-army-bots-help/