(#1) - Google Wave
Not even out of beta testing, this new Google product is a fusion of online document writing and chat program. "Waves" are collections of comments and ideas that are usually longer and more in-depth than standard online chats, and those that have been invited to participate in the Wave can answer to any individual posting rather than having a simple linear train of thoughts. Add in the ability to re-edit existing ideas and a "Playback" feature that allows anyone to read the Wave in the order that comments were posted, and you have a unique tool for working together over distances. This is an invite-only service right now, but I have plenty of invites if anyone ever wishes to try this program.
(#2) - Google Docs
A stripped down and basic suite of Office programs, Google offers this service to anyone that gets an account with them. All documents are stored online, and can also be shared with other users in your gmail address book.Give them read-only or edit access, and anyone in the group can see how someone's project is coming along and even help it along if so wished.
(#3) - Skype
Once again, a free access program. This one is a Voice-over-Internet calling and chat program, allowing for conference calling and text chat in the same package. Higher quality than most of the other chat systems that added Voice on after the fact, Skype also offers users paid accounts to allow for voicemail and even a phone number that others can call from any phone anywhere. If you want to just use the free voice chatting, headsets that combine headphone and microphone can be had for $10 to $100. Prices vary depending on quality, features (such as wireless connection), and design.
No comments:
Post a Comment