One of the advantages of using GSuite is that our files are stored in the Cloud, so we can access them from any computer, at any time. But to get access to them, we normally need internet connection… so what to do when the internet connection is unreliable or not available at all?
Here are some tips on how to work and collaborate offline.
First off, you need to get prepared for working offline when you are online! Google has created apps compatible with offline mode, that you can download in your Chrome, Play or App store.
This is the case of Gmail for instance, that allows Chrome desktop users to check and write emails via the “Gmail Offline” app. Check out this link to download this app in the Chrome Web Store : goo.gl/89Wm0X. If inspiration strikes when you’re on the road, you just need to go to your Gmail Offline App installed in your Chrome desktop browser, and use your Gmail as you were online (eg: writing, labeling emails). Your emails will be always synced when you are connected again.
Google Drive is also equipped with offline capabilities on desktop and on mobile. You just need to make sure you enable them when you’re online. If you are using a desktop, Drive files are available offline from any Chrome browser. To enable offline mode, go to drive.google.com/drive/settings and Check the box next to “Sync Google Docs, Sheets, Slides & Drawings files to this computer so that you can edit offline.
If you'd prefer to access Drive files from your computer, instead of a Chrome browser, it is also possible : you will need to install Google Drive on your desktop. Once you have installed this app, any changes you make locally in your Google Drive folder will sync to your "My Drive" on the web. Find the instructions on how to install this app in this article: goo.gl/8xFvgb
Finally we may be on the go and without internet connection when we most urgently need to get access to a Drive folder. To make it possible to work and collaborate offline from your mobile, you first enable offline access on your phone by downloading the Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, or Slides apps. Then, you go to your Google Drive app and select the “available offline” option for the file(s) you want to work on offline.