2. Project Collaboration
•Project collaboration tools are essential for students
of business and professionals.
•It allows for group interaction over a network or
online source.
NEEDS:
•Smart phones, tablets, laptops, palm readers all
allow for group collaboration tools
•There must be a network connection in order to
connect the tool with others.
3. Leaders in the Industry
•Google Docs
•Sharing of word documents
•Powerpoint
•Project
•Programs similar to Microsoft Office.
•Skype
•Video conferencing
•Instant messaging
•Send files and pictures.
4. Google Docs
Pros:
1. Can be used/ accessed anywhere in the world and any documents are
saved to your email account.
2. Has a plethora of different easy-to-use programs that are similar to
programs in Microsoft Office platforms.
3. Can be shared with anyone for editing/ proof-reading regardless of what
kind of computer or operating system is being used.
Cons:
1. You must have a Gmail account to be able to use google docs.
2. Since it is web based, an internet connection is needed to access any
information.
3. If the server crashes or internet connection is lost, information can be
lost.
5. Skype: Video and Instant Messaging
.
Pros:
1. Allows one to video chat from anywhere on the globe at any
hour of the day, including instant messaging while video chatting.
2. One can also use it as a call service, with unlimited amount of
minutes, low-cost calling, and free VoIP. Basic services like video
chat are free.
3. Has a business integrated function as well as integration with
company phone services.
Cons:
1. Since Skype is an internet service, or what they call a peer-to-
peer open connection, quality of calls can vary based on
location, and internet provider.
2. Malware can be transferred into company databases through
instant messaging.
3. Outages can occur due to congested server.
6. Zotero: Research Collaboration
Pros:
1. Allows you to organize and cite research, sources, and files in
an efficient manner
2. Can sync your research library across multiple platforms
3. You can share your research library and files with as many
members as you choose
Cons:
1. Storage is all web-based, meaning problems with servers could
mean lost/irretrievable data
2. Only 200MB of storage are available for free. Anything over
that requires purchase
3. The user interface is difficult to understand and use at first, and
takes some time to get used to
7. Sync.in: Web Collaboration
Pro:
1. Allows people to collaborate with text documents, useful for meeting
notes, planning or brainstorms.
2. It can be shared by Email, or other social networking sites, like
Facebook, Twitter and etc.
3. There is no signup required to use this tool. Just hit the “Create a new
public note” button on the home page and you could get started.
Cons:
1. There are some limitations like user registration, limited to two users etc.
2. This tools does not have the ability to import files from computer.
3. There’s no option to preview a file before downloading.
8. Twiddla: Whiteboard Tool
Pros:
1. Twiddla is free and easily accessible since it doesn’t require any downloads or
plug ins. There is no need for setup and anyone can use it on a web browser
anytime, anywhere.
2. It allows users to interact on a web page and a whiteboard at the same time
where they can upload documents and pictures. They can then edit the page and
discuss information or problems via chat or the integrated voice feature.
3. There is absolutely no limit on how many people can be on a Twiddla meeting or
session. Also if a user wants to step away, they can later come back and re-enter the
same session.
Cons:
1. Although Twiddla lets users talk in real time, it doesn’t allow them to video chat.
2. While using this tool, is doesn’t permit users to see each other’s desktop unlike
tools such as BeamYourScreen or CrossLoop.
3. It requires users to pay a subscription fee if they want more features like being
able to build their own application on top of the platform.
4. It was not designed to work with Flash websites
9. The Winner: Google Docs
We wanted a tool that was easy to edit by everyone. That way we could make
quick changes if needed.
•Google Docs was the choice of tool since most of us are familiar with it.
•Those that are not aware of how to use it, will have a sense of familiarity
because all the programs are similar to Microsoft Office.
•Many people use different operating systems (MAC vs Windows) on their
computers, so Google makes this tool universal to all systems.
•All documents are downloadable to Microsoft Office.
•The sharing of documents allows for groups to edit and come to a mutual
agreement. Edits in the process of being made can be seen by all group users.
