Technology Tools: Online Collaboration
Do you collaborate with business partners and clients located in different parts of the world? Are you looking for ways to be more productive?
The Internet has bridged the communication gap. Service firms are increasingly turning to the Internet to review documents, arrange and conduct meetings and work together. There are a number of online tools that are available at little or no charge that can result in a savings in communication costs, and a quantum leap in productivity.
It's like being at the same table when you're worlds apart.
Webconferences
Attending a webconference or a 'webinar' enables participants to attend events without the additional cost of time and travel. Webconferences are sometimes broadcast live and are usually available as archived files. High-speed Internet is recommended.
Videoconferencing
Webcams and high-speed Internet connections have made it possible for businesses to hold meetings, large and small over the Internet. These real-time videoconferences are especially useful for connecting a project team or for building client relationships. Larger meetings tend to require the rental of a videoconferencing facility and are becoming more predominant in major cities around the world.
Instant Messaging
Save time and money by instant messaging your online collaborators. Sometimes a quick answer to a question is all you need. There is an abundance of instant messaging applications. Some of these are: MSN Messenger, Yahoo Messaging, and AOL Instant Messenger.
Newsgroups and Discussion Groups
Newsgroups provide an environment whereby subscribers can discuss topics with others who share the same interest. They are generally available at no cost and can be found on hundreds of thousands of websites.
Real-time Document Sharing
Some webconferencing tools enable users to share documents, making it possible for one user to the see changes being made by another in real time. This is especially effective when collaboration is required on the development of a presentation, or in adjusting a budget on a spreadsheet. Microsoft's NetMeeting is an example of a tool that offers this functionality.
Calendar Sharing
Large organizations are no longer the only ones to be able to schedule meetings electronically. Small businesses can use the calendar feature, which is available in many email applications, to share their schedule with business associates. For service firms, this is also an effective way to monitor billable time for sub-contractors.
E-Learning
E-learning, also known as distance learning in academic circles, involves the use of the Internet to help deliver educational programs (e.g., online courses, e-performance support). Interactive elements can include multimedia elements such as video and/or audio streaming, animation, discussion groups and online testing.
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