Element

Our primary platform for internal communication.

Overview

Element is an app used for chat and collaboration, built on the Matrix protocol. Think of it like Gmail, but for messaging—secure, private, and decentralised. It’s a secure alternative to platforms like Slack.

Key Features

  • Secure & Private: End-to-end encryption (E2EE) for all messages.
  • Decentralized: No single company controls your account.
  • Flexible: Works with multiple apps and can bridge to WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord.

Element Structure

  • 🏢 Spaces: Groups of related rooms (e.g., team, topic, project). Can be nested.
  • 💬 Rooms: Where conversations happen. Public or private. Private rooms are encrypted.
  • 🔑 Roles: Admin (manage settings), Moderator (manage content), Member (participate).

User Setup Steps

Step 1: Create your account: https://app.element.io.

  • Choose a username like tenzin.gyatso (use your real name if available; otherwise, pick a professional variation with a dot)
  • Use the default server: matrix.org

Step 2: Save your recovery key securely (needed to verify new device and restore access).

Step 3: Download the Desktop app from https://element.io/download. Use this as the primary app for communication.

Step 4: Download the Mobile app (Element X) from App Store or Google Play. Use this as a secondary app—mainly for notifications.

Step 5: Complete the above 4 steps and then email your Matrix username, so we can invite you to our Element workspace. Accept the invite, join suggested rooms, and introduce yourself in the #General room.

Step 6: Enable notifications on both desktop and mobile apps.

General Element Guidelines

Be Respectful: Treat everyone with courtesy and professionalism.

Use the Right Channels: Post in relevant rooms (team-specific in private rooms, general topics in public rooms).

⚠️ Keep Conversations Organized: ALWAYS use threads for replies (Reply in Thread) to keep conversations tidy.

Manage Notifications: Use @mentions wisely to avoid spamming others.

Follow Channel Rules: Respect each room’s purpose and guidelines.

Protect Privacy: Keep sensitive information secure and private.

Update Your Status: Reflect your availability with status updates.

Ask for Help: If in doubt, reach out to your team for guidance.