could claap, an asynchronous video meetings platform, end the tyranny of zoom calls?

The Evolution of Remote Work Tools

The widespread shift to remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, has highlighted the limitations of existing collaboration tools. Platforms like Slack, Trello, Zoom, and Asana, while useful, don’t fully address the needs of a distributed workforce seeking sustained productivity.

A new generation of remote-working solutions is now emerging, focusing on more effective methods of communication. Tools such as Loom, which facilitates one-way video messaging for demonstrations and explanations, have gained traction, securing $203.6 million in funding. However, Loom’s collaborative capabilities are somewhat limited.

Introducing Claap: Asynchronous Meetings for the Modern Workplace

A European startup, Claap, is aiming to fill this gap with its asynchronous meeting platform. The platform combines video functionality with robust collaboration features, offering a potential solution for more streamlined remote interactions.

Claap has successfully raised $3 million in pre-seed funding. Investors include LocalGlobe, Headline, E.Ventures, Kima Ventures, and prominent angel investors like Mathilde Collin (Front co-founder), Tony Jamous (Oyster co-founder), Matt Robinson (Nest and GoCardless founder), and Aadil Mamujee (Automattic’s head of product).

The Problem with Synchronous Meetings

The transition to remote work has often resulted in the lengthening of simple interactions into lengthy, scheduled video calls. These 30-minute Zoom meetings, frequently replacing quick in-office conversations, can be inefficient and draining. Asynchronous meetings present a viable alternative.

Claap’s platform enables employees to record brief video updates on specific topics. Team members can then provide feedback directly on the relevant sections of the video, with assigned due dates for responses. This fosters a collaborative environment where colleagues can contribute at their convenience.

Claap positions itself as the remote equivalent of a “quick hallway catch-up”. It integrates with project management tools like Trello and Jira, ensuring that decisions are documented and accessible to the entire team. A tiered subscription model, based on team size, is planned for release.

A Shift Away From Real-Time Interaction

By eliminating the need for real-time scheduling, Claap effectively minimizes the traditional “meeting” format. Instead, the platform cultivates a dedicated space for feedback and iterative development.

The Team Behind Claap

Founders Robin Bonduelle and Pierre Touzeau drew inspiration from the practices of companies like Automattic and GitLab. Touzeau previously worked at 360Learning, a company known for its strict limitations on meetings.

Bonduelle brings ten years of product management experience, having held positions at startups and scaleups including Ogury (as VP of Product) and Rocket Internet. He honed his skills in asynchronous communication while managing a team of 50 individuals across multiple countries and time zones. Touzeau’s background includes roles at L’Oréal and 360Learning, where he most recently served as VP of Marketing.

The Power of Video Communication

While asynchronous communication isn’t without its challenges – emails and Slack messages can often be overlooked – video may offer a more engaging solution.

Robin Bonduelle, CEO and co-founder of Claap, stated: “After a year of remote work, people are recognizing the advantages of not being office-bound, but also confronting a significant drawback: constant video meetings. Tasks that would take five minutes in person now require at least 30 minutes, leading to increased exhaustion. Claap is designed to address this, providing tools for engagement and connection without consuming excessive time.”

Touzeau added: “Meetings are essential, but they shouldn’t dominate the workday. Asynchronous meetings are key to reclaiming our schedules while maintaining productivity and meeting deadlines. We are enthusiastic about Claap’s potential to empower remote work.”

Investor Perspectives

George Henry, general partner at LocalGlobe, commented: “We were impressed by Robin and Pierre’s vision and Claap’s potential to facilitate employee connection and enable work from anywhere.”

Jonathan Userovici, partner at Headline, noted: “While Zoom has been a dominant enterprise application, it’s insufficient for businesses embracing a remote-first approach. Claap is a compelling alternative to combat video-calling fatigue.”