This is the first time I join an online gamejam and the experience is being an amazing challenge. I am working with different people from the past (and first) gamejam I joined, this means I am learning how to work with new people. At the same time, I've noticed a big challenge on working online. Additionally, having a month to wokr instead of a full weekend brings an additional difficulty: time management.

Things I have been exploring during this experience:

• Online communication

Not a surprise at all: this is a big challenge for two main reasons. First, giving and receiving feedback is complex sometimes by writen. Writen language is read in the mood that you are. If you are afraid of receiving feedback or you have any selfconfidence issue, you may read with a rude tone. How to avoid that? I suggest phone calls (I know, we all hate that) or videocalls. Sometimes a call-for-a-coffee can solve many co-working situations

Second, you may need to receive some feedback or information from someone who may be... having fun in their lifes! Waiting for something that you may need in that exact moment may exasperate you as your working plan may suffer a delay. What I suggest is to plan with time your working periods to know what you may need. If you need from others, communicate that before starting working so you may have the maximum information as possible during your session. Other option may be: be proactive about solutions, offer options and be flexible with your proposal so others can adapt themselves to the solution you proposed. 

• Working from home

That may be seen as something positive, mainly if you suffer from social anxiety. However, sometimes working from home means an extra effort  when tasks are linked with other's tasks. Organization is a challenge, not only with the group but also with your own life. My piece of advice here is try to find moments when you all can work at the same time. Not always, but at least I would suggest some sessions.

• Wow, we have a month!

Don't be that optimistic, mainly if you have a full time job. Normally a month means that you have to combine the gamejam with your personal life, shopping needs, work or family responsabilities. Create a work callendar and try to be realistic. I find a better escenario to have extra time than being stressed and not meeting deadlines as this can spoil other's work. Feed your wish-list with as many objectives as you want and be realistic with the base project.

No fliparse is important!

Do you have any other tips? I would love to read them!