When managing a project remotely, what is the best way to ensure effective communication?

We should have Communication Plan with RACI chart. We have to follow plan.

I think good communication will be by.

Good ERP system Software. Including  Cost Control, HR, wear house and accounting, .....etc. 

Mailing System with Good archive on line.

Reporting plan .. Daily, weekly and monthly. Attached with photo reports.

For managing projects remotely or while working with virtual teams, there should be more of Video Conferencing and Formal Written Communication as against Verbal or Telephonic Communication which may lead to barriers or miscommunication.

Have a Communication Management Plan formulated as part of the Project Management Plan and bring about changes or improvements in the same as the Project progresses through the Execution Phase.

PMI & PMBOK have emphasised that Project Plans are iterative in nature and can be changed to imrove project performances at any time during the Project Life Cycle.

dear sir,

since we are dealing with people,behavioural issues must be taken into consideration and considered.

in my experience it has been the use of ERBor SAP systems combined with a full remote controled survaliance and business control module where while you are physically not there ,audio visioally you are there in every step.i know it is illegal in some contries to have such access but to ensure full knowledge of the site progress you need360 degree camera survaliance with sound tracking,erp or sap to manage orders and to monitor work progress agaionst schedule.

Through the continuous feedback

1. Direct contact with key personnel
2. Imaging the progression in stages
3. Regular reporting and feedback
4. Online facilitation

If you are maintaing ERP than its enough, no matter where you are and as addition it would be the best to have telecon always.

Telecommunication and web mail is more effective way to lead the project remotely

It really depends on the maturitym discipline and attitude of your team members and their acceptance of the responsibility on their shoulders and understanding the accontability (positive and negative) towards success or failure of the project.

It also adepends on crystal clear missions and tasks regarding what is to be achieved, effective2-way communications all along the lifetime of the project and close scrutiny on what goes on there and take corrective/adjustive actions accordingly !