1. GROUP COLLABORATION
TOOLS
SFSU ISYS 363
FALL 2013
SECTION 01
ORIOLES

2. Introduction
Collaboration tools allow peers to participate in real
time discussions and ensure effective communication. In
addition, before using any collaboration tools individuals
need to make sure they have the adequate
equipment/software. For example, many collaboration tools
need software such as Java to run certain applications for
that tool, and individuals need to make sure they have Java
enabled browsers. Another example would be if individuals
would like to use video conferencing through a application
or program such as Skype they will need to have a
webcam and the application and/or software to use it in a
group collaboration. Most importantly all of the tools we
have chosen require either cellular service and/or an
internet connection.

3. Introduction Cont.
• The criteria selection: Mobile instant messages, Email,
Skype, Google Docs and Forums. These five
collaboration tools provide effective communication.
Although, they are different from one another they all have
one purpose, which is to communicate ideas. Most group
projects will utilize one, if not all of these collaboration
tools.
• Over the past few years video conferencing has become
a very popular collaboration tool. Some of the reasons
could be its low cost and face to face communication
abilities. Of the many different video conferencing
applications, Skype remains the market leader being that
it is the most commonly used due to its convenience and
free long-distance.

4. Email
Pros
• Keeps records for future
reference
• Able to send without the
recipient being available
• If you have a smart
phone you can check your
emails anywhere
• Able to send documents
as attachments
Cons
• Not easily accessible for
everyone
• Need a smart phone or
internet access
• Response time can vary
• Limited file size for
attachments

5. Text (SMS)
Pros
• Typically quick response
times
• Can be saved for future
reference
• Convenient and reliable
Cons
• Can be expensive
• Cannot send large files
• Cellular service can be
sporadic and may not
receive texts when sent.

6. Google Docs
Pros
• Free
• Easy and convenient
document sharing
• Recognizes many different
document formats
Cons
• Need online access
• Have to sign up for an
account to access site
• Website can experience
downtime

7. Skype
Pros
• Free
• Real Time collaboration
• Able to share visual
presentations and ideas
• Smartphone application
Cons
• Must have a webcam or
proper equipment
• Need an account with
Skype
• Need online access
• Frequent software
updates

8. Forums
Pros
• Able to upload and share
files
• Keeps a log of all
communication
• Information is all in one
place and easy to
reference
Cons
• Not checked frequently
• Do not receive alerts
when new posts have
been made
• Need online access

9. Winners
• Texts – We can conveniently send group messages to
alert our group when we have made a new post.
• Forums – We can communicate all information and ideas
in a group format and upload/share files.

10. Works Referenced
• http://thenextweb.com/apps/2012/07/14/10-top-tools-for-
business-brainstorming-and-collaboration/
• http://library.blackboard.com/docs/r6/6_1/instructor/bbls_r
6_1_instructor/collaboration_tools.htm
• http://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/2012/02/06/four-
best-web-collaboration-tools/