Group items tagged

Burst SMS is a pay as you use web based instant messaging service that is marketed as a 'private label SMS marketing tool' for responsible mobile marketing and advertising [1]. The service can be accessed remotely from any external online source and offers instant messaging facility in both single and multiple SMS sending modes, to just about anywhere in the world [2]. It is a system that can be rebranded to fit any companies profile and is touted as being wholly SPAM compliant with a built in industry compliant opt-out system [3]. The system has the following features: · Web based SMS delivery to one or many recipients · Cheap SMS rates - within Australia 8.8 cents per SMS. Elsewhere in the world 7.2 - 15.8 cents per SMS. · Marketing application - offers up to 250 SMS messages per minute, within 10 seconds. Includes an opt-out code. · Delivers reports · SMS reseller offering, with a white label web SMS system · Provides quick and easy communication within a business - facilitates team communication. · Unlimited number of contacts · Use of a keyboard to send messages rather than a predictive text pad. · Personalise text messaging to multiple contacts by using the [firstname] variable [4]. · Sits as a bookmark in your toolbar - no login required · Multiple personalising features - schedule reminders, favourites list, use personal mobile number identifier to elicit a response. · Sends out updates, alerts, reminders, promotional messages, confirmations etc. · Sends pictures, video's and audio. The value of using such a system for collaborative purposes is found in its ability to contact, and send personalised messages to, multiple people at one time in order to relay updates, new ideas, and changes in schedules simply and effectively, which saves time, money and concern [5].

References for BurstSMS: [1] CrunchBase (2008) Burst sms. Retrieved on 13th April 2010 from http://www.crunchbase.com/company/burst-sms [2] BurstSMS (2010) Web SMS Service. Retrieved on 11th April 2010 from http://burstsms.com/home [3] MobileMarketing Magazine (2010) Burst SMS Offers Opt-out Advice. Retrieved on 13th April 2010 from http://www.mobilemarketingmagazine.co.uk/2010/01/burst-sms-offers-optout-advice.html [4] BurstSMS blog (2010) 10 ways the Burst Web SMS Bookmarklet can make your text messaging life easier. Retrieved on 13th April 2010 from http://blog.burstsms.com/10-ways-the-burstsms-bookmarklet-can-make-you [5] MattE (2010) How a school kept parents happy using SMS. Retrieved on 13th April 2010 from http://www.plusone.com.au/diary/2010/03/17/how-a-school-kept-parents-happy-using-sms/

Microsoft Office Communicator (OC) is the replacement for Microsoft's previous instant messaging client, Windows Messenger. OC has been expanded to incorporate a larger range of communication capabilities than its predecessor. OC is a unified communications tool that integrates instant messaging and chat with voice and video, and enables sharing of desktops for collaborative work. It also integrates with Microsoft Office programs [1]. The software can be extended into the enterprise environment by linking in with Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS) and many mobile devices support instant messaging functionality through OC, for example, the popular Blackberry devices [2]. To get the most out of OC, IP phones should be utilised along with web cams; there are a range of IP phones to choose from [3]. OC has received praise over their VoIP services [4] and have conducted a large amount of research and development into their proprietary IP phone [5]. A disadvantage of any VoIP service is the absolute dependence on network availability - without LAN service, the IP phones do not work. OC runs in real time and does not require a virtual private network (VPN), allowing you access through internet-enabled devices or PCs [6]. This constitutes a significant cost saving, particularly if your company conducts business via long distance teleconferencing or videoconferencing services. Essentially, OC is a method of "streamlining" all communication needs into one integrated application [6]. This can prove useful for team collaboration and online meetings particularly for members who are geographically separate. Other business benefits include the Presence feature and a comprehensive audit history. Presence allows you to quickly see if someone is out of the office, on a call, or otherwise busy. This feature works off Outlook calendars and IP phone status and is similar to the statuses of Windows Messenger denoting "away", "busy" etc and has the

added benefit of integrating directly with Outlook (e.g. if you create a new email message, there will be a presence indicator next to the recipients' name(s))[7]. For auditing purposes, all communication history is recorded in the form of audit logs of calls and IM sessions. This is important for appropriate recordkeeping of business records. References [1] Microsoft. (2010). Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Product Overview. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://office.microsoft.com/en-au/communicator/HA102037151033.aspx [2] Blackberry. (2010). BlackBerry Instant Messaging for Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://na.blackberry.com/eng/services/server/exchange/office_communicator.jsp [3] Microsoft. (2010). Phones and Devices Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/office/ocs/bb970310.aspx [4] Poe, R. (2007). Microsoft's Office Communicator Blows Away IP Phones. VoIP-News. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.voip-news.com/feature/microsoft-voip-high-grade-030807/ [5] Microsoft. (2010). Device Highlight: Polycom® CX300. Office Communicator Team Blog. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://communicatorteam.com/archive/2010/03/03/978.aspx [6] Microsoft. (2010). Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 Datasheet. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=6306ae9c-6ede-4908-800f-256a75bebc75&displaylang=en [7] Howorth, R. (2007). Office Communicator 2007. ZDNet.co.uk. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.zdnet.co.uk/reviews/communication-and-collaboration/2007/10/16/office-communicator-2007-39290042/

Edmodo is a free private social network for education, which is easy and simple to use. (Edmodo, 2010) It creates an online learning space that is safe and secure, where teachers and students can interact and connect with each other. Edmodo can be used in the classroom and also after class when students are at home. Its layout has a similar look and feel to existing social media tools such as Facebook, and the operation of the site is similar to Twitter, where posts are made live instantly. Since Edmodo is similar to existing social media websites, students see schoolwork as being fun, and "are comfortable with using Edmodo at home and logging on and talking about school work" (abc7, 2010) Edmodo works by users creating a teacher or student account. Teacher's accounts allow them to create groups for example, Math Class Red and Math Class Green. Students can join groups by entering a unique code provided by the teacher. This prevents and limits who can join the group. (Thomas, 2010) Teachers can use Edmodo to post messages and files, send links to websites, create and send assignments, send back assignment results and create polls. Edmodo allows teachers to send these to individuals, groups or everyone in the class. Student's accounts allow them to message the teacher, groups or everyone in the class, but prevents them messaging one another. By doing this, it avoids student's instant messaging each other, (Thomas, 2010) and only allows them to use Edmodo for educational purposes.

Teachers and students can be kept up to date with the latest activity via text message and with Edmodo being accessible via mobile phones, (Edmodo, 2010) posts can be made and activity checked anytime, anywhere. Teachers are finding that by encouraging students to post comments on Edmodo they are becoming "actively engaged in classroom discussions". Since social media is second nature to students, by using websites like Edmodo, teachers are able to connect with students with "technology they already understand".(abc7, 2010) Reference: abc7. (2010). Special Segment:Techno Teaching. Retrieved April 15, 2010, from http://abclocal.go.com/wls/video?id=7268097 Edmodo. (2010). Retrieved April 15, 2010, from http://www.edmodo.com/ Thomas, C. (2010). 016 - Using Edmodo as a collaboration and communication tool. Retrieved April 14, 2010, from http://www.iprimary.co.uk/tutorial.php?tutorialID=016

This article discusses the different types of online collaborative tools available to businesses, which could more effectively enhance their various communities of practice. However, she argues that technology should only be a supportive tool to intranet webmasters and knowledge managers, and not the driving force behind them when creating a community of collaborators. She also suggests that a company may have to tap into several forms of online collaboration to be successful. Frichter highlights three main services that online collaborative tools should offer: 1. A way to communicate 2. A mechanism to share documents 3. A means to discover other members of the community [1]. The article also discusses areas of the workflow in which online collaborative tools could help, tasks that can be helped through it, and how it can increase the efficiency and productivity of a workplace. The hierarchy of collaborative tools suggested here are: · e-mail · Mailing lists · Discussion boards · Instant Messaging · Groupware and portals · Weblogs · Wikis In conclusion, Fichter re-iterates the importance of asking key evaluation questions when determining what collaborative tools you need and what will be most effective. However, most importantly, she suggests that it is necessary to assess the culture of the workplace in order to match the needs with the tools, and it usually takes more than one tool to meet those needs. The key to this article is that it identifies several online collaborative tools, which are worth further investigation to understand their true value both individually and collectively. [1] Fichter, Darlene (2005) The many forms of e-collaboration: Blogs, wikis, portals, groupware, discussion boards, and instant messaging. Online Vol. 29 Issue 4, pp 48-50.

"If you haven't put in a suite of collaboration tools, it's probably time to do so... know your workplace culture and environment... define your requirements... communication, sharing, and management" Darlene Fichter, [2]. Fichter is an IT solutions consultant working for Northern Lights Internet Solutions Ltd, which can be found at http://www.lights.ca/ [1]. Fichter provides an excellent discussion on collaborative tools and identifies newcomers to collaboration/social media in the workplace. One of the strongest aspects of the article is how Fichter proposes questions one should ask when determining what collaborative tool will function best for the firm. Fichter states the importance of knowing your environment; "What IT infrastructure is in place already that you can leverage?" [3] This is a valid question to consider; for example a small company without an IT department may need online help added to software package or a key word - 'easy' - the software must be easy to setup and manage. Another similar question to consider is finances; "are there financial and human resources available to purchase, install, and maintain an application?" [3] Fichter suggests that a firm may need to progress step by step and advance to collaboration tool extras, while in the beginning start with something small and sleek. Some web-based collaboration tools offer a free service for small business, and other offer a paid, supported subscription. "How frequently do people need to communicate? What type of communication is preferred-asynchronous-text, voice, or video?" [3] The Fichter article demonstrates the needs associated with software selection and how important it is to consider communication limitations in a collaboration product. The article is a good source as it highlights the fact that collaborative tools are diverse and can be adapted for various user needs. Fichter adapts web2.0 technology such as Wikis and blogs as possible solutions fo

References/Notes [1] Northern Lights Internet Solutions Ltd, http://www.lights.ca/ [accessed April 7, 2010]. [2] Fichter, Darlene (2005). The many forms of e-collaboration: Blogs, wikis, portals, groupware, discussion boards, and instant messaging. Online Vol. 29 Issue 4, pp 48-50. [3] Fichter, Darlene (2005). The paragraphs on know your environment and define your requirements. Online Vol. 29 Issue 4, pp50.

This resource represents a case study done within a high-technology software and service company, known as KME, on the effectiveness of instant messaging (IM) as a collaborative tool for information exchange and project collaboration [1]. IM is identified as being effective as a problem-solving tool in the following ways: · Speeding up exchange of information · Posing quick questions · Making clarifications · Arranging and coordinating richer media collaborations · Problem solving through a network of people · Solicit an immediate response. However, the paper also explores the social processes of such a collaborative tool. Connectedness is fostered through IM, but whether it is positive or negative depends on the characteristics of the actors' relationships. These social processes are manifest in the form of power, social relationships and workplace norms. The social translucence of technology (STT) framework is used to examine their collaborative processes. The article focuses on STT's three characteristics and determines the following: 1. Visibility - IM has several key visibility features that allow the users to indicate their availability to communicate and interact. 2. Awareness - This is strongly connected to the social framework of the actors and their connectedness with each other. 3. Accountability -It is dependent on whether a workers status is higher or lower within the organisation. It recognises that IM is a lean media and, when used within the context of few social cues and less complex knowledge issues, it can foster a good sense of community, provide for ad hoc exchanges, and speed up the process of information exchange. However, it also recognises that the social processes involved must be considered in terms of whether this connectedness is perceived as positive or negative, whether it is used to create distance, and a person's hierarchical position within the company.

Reference: [1] Quan-Haase, A., Cothrel, J., and Wellman, B. (2005). Instant messaging for collaboration: A case study of a high-tech firm. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 10(4), article 13. Retrieved on 12th April 2010 from http://jcmc.indiana.edu/vol10/issue4/quan-haase.html

Fuze Meeting is one of the few browser-based web meeting platforms that allows the participant to not only host web conferences from their computer but to also attend a meeting from their Apple iPhone, RIM BlackBerry or any Wi-Fi or 3G enabled device [1] Since its 2009 software upgrade, participants can now invite attendees from several e-mail and instant messaging clients such as Microsoft Outlook, Windows Live Hotmail, Google Gmail, Google Talk, AOL AIM, Skype, LinkedIn and Yahoo [2] and works seamlessly with Linux, Mac and PC. Fuze Meeting also integrates with Facebook and Twitter allowing users to announce their audio and web meetings to followers. Fuze Meeting provides high-definition, real-time synchronized desktop sharing for online collaboration of videos, images, documents and PowerPoint presentations (as well as text chat). It does this by operating solely through the browser and Internet cloud (in this instance, the Fuze servers) eliminating the need for downloads or installations. [3] Fuze Meeting's simple editing tools allow for annotations on files or video frames, drawing simple graphics or adding text. [4] Control meetings and content; invite participants on the fly or schedule in advance all through the easy-to-use dashboard. At the end of the meeting hosts are able to publish a Fuze Meeting Replay link for others to review the meeting and its content. Fuze Meeting is free for up to three web users and seven audio users however there are competitive, cost-effective pay-as-you-go, monthly and annual plans to cater for larger numbers of users (for example, at the monthly level, Fuze Meeting costs $29 compared to its competition, WebEx or Go-to-Meeting which cost $49 per month). [5]

Fuze Meeting is a web-browser based web conference service and it also provides compatible applications for Blackberrys and iPhones [1]. Fuze Meeting utilises the Flash browser plug-in to provide a useful tool with an easy-to-use interface [2]. Meetings can include up to 15 attendees and its built-in chat integrates with AOL, Google, MSN, and Yahoo's chat applications [2]. Out of the top 10 web-meeting applications OnlineMeetingReviews.com ranked Fuze Meeting one of the top two products available [2]. Comparable online meeting services include GoToMeeting [3], Dim Dim [4], and iLinc [5]. Apple's GoToMeeting provides everything that Fuze Meeting does and more but at a higher monthly fee [3]. Dim Dim provides slightly more functionality to Fuze Meeting at a lower monthly fee [4]. iLink provide the same functionality as GoToMeeting with a focus towards the high-end corporate market, and iLink's pricing is available on application [5]. All four services offer 30 day free trial offers. Overall Fuze Meeting's nearest competitor in the meeting services market appears to be Dim Dim. Fuze Meeting and Dim Dim's services received an identical overall ranking from No1Reviews.com who tested for reliability, security, usability, features, support and value [6][7]. Fuze Meeting is a product worth considering for anyone interested in using a web conferencing service. ---------------- see References below

References [1] Fuze Box Inc (2010). 'Web Conferencing, Online Meeting, Web Meeting Software | Fuze Meeting'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://www.fuzemeeting.com/ [2] OnlineMeetingReviews.com (2010). 'Fuze Meeting Review - 2nd Place'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://www.onlinemeetingreviews.com/reviews/fuzemeeting/ [3] Apple Inc. (2010). 'GoToMeeting'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/ [4] Dimdim, Inc. (2010). 'Easy, Open and Affordable Web Conferencing and Webinars | Dimdim'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://www.dimdim.com/ [5] iLinc Communications. (2010). 'iLinc | Web and Video Conferencing | Online Meetings | Virtual Training | Webinars | eLearning'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://www.ilinc.com/ [6] No1Reviews.com. (2010). 'Fuze Meeting | FuzeMeeting.com Review'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://web-conferencing.no1reviews.com/fuze-meeting.html [7] No1Reviews.com. (2010). 'Dimdim | Dimdim.com Review'. Retrieved April 6, 2010 from http://web-conferencing.no1reviews.com/dimdim.html

Yammer is the leading real-time communication platform for companies, groups and organisations. It is changing the way that people communicate at work, and making project teams more connected and productive. Yammer is essentially a micro-blogging service like Twitter but it focuses on the enterprise. (Hatton, 2009) A feed is created in one central location as employees answer the question "What are you working on?" - enabling co-workers to debate ideas, post news, ask questions, and share information and links. (Datapaedia, 2010) Yammer makes it easy to securely collaborate with internal and external groups. People within an organisation can use Yammer to collaborate on projects and Yammer Communities can be used to form secure project specific Yammer networks to collaborate with customers and external partners, separate and private from the company's Yammer network. (Yammer, 2010) Each member of an organisation can have a Yammer profile including information such as photo, title, contact info, background and area of expertise. (Ives, 2009) Yammer can be used to ask a question, share news, ideas, and documents within the private network. Unlike email, "following" specific people and joining groups an individual can choose whose messages to receive thereby creating a custom feed. Messages, profiles and tags can all be archived and they are searchable, so new members can get up to speed quickly by tapping into the power of the organisation's collective database of past ideas and solutions. (Yammer, 2010) Yammer integrates with emails, Twitter, Google Talk, Jabber, Google Reader, Firefox. There are apps for Desktop, iPhone, iPod touch, SmartPhone, BlackBerry and SMS integration and several third party applications are available. It also offers a suite of corporate class security features to suit company requirements. All data sent to and from the Yammer website uses Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and all backup data and data in transit is encrypted to maximise prote

"Yammer takes the familiar Twitter messaging system and applies it to internal corporate communications" [1]. Essentially, it is microblogging whereby users can contribute, ask questions and communicate about current projects. Yammer is free to start up and businesses, if they choose, can pay for network administration rights later. Yammer has strong positives as clean and simple collaboration software. Yammer has a presence in Australia with companies like Deloitte offering up their success stories online [2]. Yet, isn't Yammer just another name for Twitter? All over the web, people are comparing Yammer to Twitter. Maybe the weakness in the web-based software is that users are looking for something that is a mix of the two. Corporate and personal - maybe something to consider - a 'Yatter' collaboration tool in the future! David Sacks, the CEO of Yammer, suggests that extras like the Yammer community and security features [3] sets Yammer ahead of Twitter as a microblogging tool. To see Sacks discuss his product on YouTube go to - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpBYo9bw2os.

Present.ly [5] is a similar product to Yammer. Needleman suggests that Present.ly is a better tool for corporate companies; "the biggest wins in Present.ly are at the platform level. Unlike Yammer, you can get Present.ly either as a hosted service, or, if you want, you can install in your business, behind your corporate firewall. And Present.ly supports the Twitter API, so tools that work with Twitter, like Twhirl, should be easily modifiable to work with Present.ly" [4]. Could Present.ly be a 'Yatter' solution? However, where Yammer is free, Present.ly is only free for up to five users and then small costs apply depending on the package selected [4]. Whether a firm uses Yammer, Twitter or Present.ly, it is clear microblogging has entered businesses as a fast, solid and dependable collaboration tool. References/Notes [1] Site Rapture Statistics, http://www.siterapture.com/sitemain.asp?SiteID=2330 [accessed April 9, 2010]. [2] Deloitte Case Study, https://www.yammer.com/about/case_studies [accessed April 9, 2010]. [3] Sacks, David., (2008). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpBYo9bw2os [accessed April 9, 2010] [4] Needleman, Rafe (2008). Business microblog tool Present.ly is smarter than Yammer, CNet News, published September 17, http://news.cnet.com/8301-17939_109-10045150-2.html [accessed April 9, 2010]. [5] Present.ly URL, http://presentlyapp.com/ [accessed April 9, 2010].

When pulling people together to work on a collaborative project, project management is essential. Basecamp is a popular web based, project management software application. It offers * dashboard (to control projects) * to do lists, * message boards, * file sharing, (files are actually stored on your server) * tracking milestones and * project tracking. Basecamp is used to manage teams and projects allowing you to set milestones, todos, comments, file uploads and messages. You can also organize your business in companies and invite different people for different companies. [1] [2] It works with Internet Explorer 7 or 8, Firefox 3 and higher, Safari 4, and Chrome 4 browsers.[2] Users report finding Basecamp very effective in managing projects, posessing an elegant user interface, and easy to use. [5] [6] 37Signals offer a 30 day free download to try and then you sign up for one of four available plans ranging in price from $24/month for a basic, 15 project, 5GB limit to a $149/month, unlimited projects, 75GB limit. All plans allow an unlimited number of users and you subscribe on a month by month basis with no minimum term. [3] Basecamp works with a variety of iPhone apps, third-party billing/invoicing tools, mock-up review software, time tracking tools, widgets and using Basecamp API you can create your own extras and add-ons. [4]

Project managers understand the importance of communicating effectively with both their team and clients in order to bring a project in on time and within budget. One solution is to have a central communications centre that is accessible to everyone involved in the project and easy to use. Basecamp project management software offers an easy online solution for tracking and organising all aspects of a project from start to finish. Organising and monitoring all phases of a project online can be easier to accomplish using Basecamp's internal dashboard. The dashboard facility centralises communication by maintaining task lists and a common message board to keep the project running smoothly. Files can be uploaded for sharing and review by other team members and clients can be kept up-to-date on the progress of their project. Within one central location, tasks and resources can be assigned to team members and project milestones can be set and monitored. (Reynolds, 2009) Basecamp offers a 30-day free trial, so potential customers can evaluate their needs and decide whether or not Basecamp is adequate for their online project management tasks. There are a multitude of third party plug-ins of extras and add-on tools built around Basecamp, that allow users to tailor their system to suit their own specific needs and to assist with more advanced functionality and security (basecamphq, 2010) - such as the file backup and archiving for Basecamp products that is available at http://www.centripetalsoftware.com/.

References Basecamp extras and integrations via the API. (2010). Project management, collaboration, and task software: Basecamp. Retrieved April 7, 2010, from http://basecamphq.com/extras Online Data Retrievel, Basecamp Backup - Centripetal Software. (2010). Online Data Retrievel, Basecamp Backup - Centripetal Software. Retrieved April 7, 2010, from http://www.centripetalsoftware.com/ Reynolds, D. (2009, December 18). Basecamp Software – A Review of the Online Project Management Software. Find Health, Education, Science & Technology Articles, Reviews, How-To and Tech Tips At Bright Hub - Apply To Be A Writer Today! Retrieved April 7, 2010, from http://www.brighthub.com/office/project-management/articles/1726.aspx

Collaber is a virtual office that holds user information secure on a dedicated server, working on both Intranets and Extranets. The multi-platform (such as Windows, Linux and Mac) project management software allows for communication and sharing of data in a password-protected online environment. Educational institutions can benefit by creating virtual classrooms with file sharing and live interaction utilising the attractive graphics. First-time users immediately gain an understanding of available features by viewing the short video tutorials available on every feature, further enhancing the overall perception of ease of use. A demo page is also available to work through the complete process of engaging online collaboration with Collaber [1]. Collaber' features will soon include online account management for mobiles [1]. Editors are context sensitive with wizards improving file and picture sharing. Discussions and Chat tools features a time line and instant messaging with attachments. A review by Business Hacks [4] points out the value of the quantity of services Collaber offers its users and also mention the quality of interactive visuals used to enhance the user' experience of the software. Features include [1]: * Searchable contacts with changeable status and profile * Instant messaging with file and picture sharing * Drag and drop functionality to share files and folders * Task management tools to assign tasks to members and track progress * Application tool designer * Discussions, Wiki's and polls

A review by PR-inside.com [3] of Collaber' features view the highlights as: * Web version with unified account * Multi calendar with similar functionality to Google App's Calendar * Improved HTML editor * Keyboard short cuts * Advanced alerts and support * Compatibility with web applications, especially attractive to application store developers * New filters enabling items found by tags, date, members, status and more References: [1] Collaber (2007). Retrieved April 11, 2010 from http://www.collaber.com [2] SoftSea (n.d.). 'Online Project Management'. Retrieved April 11, 2010 from http://www.softsea.com/review/Collaber.html [3] PR-inside (2007). 'Web based multi-platform collaboration software released'. Retrieved April 11, 2010 from http://www.pr-inside.com/print1414291.htm [4] BNet insight (2009). 'Collaborate in an online share workspace with Collaber'. Retrieved April 11, 2010 from http://blogs.bnet.com/businesstips/?p=3648

GoToMeeting is a service from Citrix that facilitates online meetings between multiple people. The service not only allows for audio chat, but also desktop/screen and file sharing (Citrix, 2010). The service supports up to 15 concurrent users in a single meeting. Similar services are available for larger presentations in the form of GoToWebinar and GoToTraining allowing for 100-1000 and 25-200 users respectively depending on the level of service subscribed. At the conclusion of a meeting, GoToMeeting offers the ability to see who attended the meeting and who did not. To protect the security of its subscribers, GoToMeeting and Citrix's other GoTo products use 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) end-to-end encryption (Citrix, 2010). This ensures that all communication is only seen by the intended recipients. AES encryption is a proven encryption algorithm and the cipher approved by the NSA (an American intelligence agency) for storing information up to the SECRET level (and TOP SECRET if a 192-bit or 256-bit key is used) (CNSS Secretariat, 2003). GoToMeeting has several competitors. The main competitors appear to be Cisco WebEx and Microsoft SharedView (successor to NetMeeting). However, competition also exists with combinations of free tools that fill the same need once combined. For example, Skype coupled with TeamViewer could be used to accomplish much the same task although not nearly as easy to use in the screen sharing combined with audio conferencing aspect. Citrix. (2010). Features. Retrieved April 12, 2010, from GoToMeeting: http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/online_collaboration Citrix. (2010). Security & Reliability. Retrieved April 13, 2010, from GoToMeeting: http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/secure_web_conferencing CNSS Secretariat. (2003,

GoToMeeting is a "popular online meeting application" (Ramachandran & Beeram, 2009) that is used to "collaborate online, give presentations and for online training." (Ramachandran & Beeram, 2009) This easy-to-use application allows collaborating with anyone, anywhere, saving businesses time and money particularly with traveling expenses. (Business Wire, 2009) GoToMeeting is used by small and large businesses; with the ability to "host an online meeting with up to 15 people". (Online Meetings, 2010) For $US49 a month and an Internet connection, it can be operated on Mac or PC, and now on the iPad. An App for the iPad was created, due to the "need for more mobility in our work styles." (Citrix Online, 2010) This creates more opportunity to collaborate remotely, without the need to be in the office. Online meetings can begin with a simple click of a button. Members can be invited to join by phone or a link in an email or instant message. (How It Works, 2010) Members can join quickly and start collaborating, using their computers microphone and speakers or by calling in via telephone. (Ramachandran & Beeram, 2009) Some feature of GoToMeeting are listed below: * Display presenters screen - The presenters screen is shown, displaying the desktop, an application or document. The presenter can change the screen shown to view another members screen. This helps members visualize. * Drawing tools - encouraging interactive collaboration. Highlighting and drawing using the pen, highlighter, arrow or spotlight tool * Record Meetings - meeting can be reviewed at a later date. Recording can be posted on the company website for other employees to listen to. * Mouse and keyboard controls - can be given to other members in the meeting, allowing members to collaborate.

* Security features - Creating a safe and secure environment. "SSL-encrypted Web site, End-to-end 128-bit AES encryption, Automatic inactivity time-out" (Security & Reliability, 2010) GoToMeeting is a quick and simple meeting tool that is effective for small and large businesses and allows employees to collaborate with each other on a daily basis. Reference: Business Wire. (2009). Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/images/pdf/caseStudies/GoToMeeting_GoToWebinar_cs_Business_Wire.pdf Citrix Online Launches GoToMeeting App for iPad. (2010). Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://www.citrixonline.com/pr/pressRelease.tmpl?FileID=040210& SourceTemplate=expertcity%2Fpr%2FpressReleases.tmpl How It Works. (2010). Retrieved April 16, 2010, from http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/web_meeting Online Meetings Made Easy. (2010). Retrieved April 16, 2010, from http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/online_meeting Ramachandran, K. & Beeram, S. (2009). Supporting Enterprise-Grade Audio Conferencing on the Internet. Lecture Notes In Computer Science, 5448(2009), 143-152. Retrieved April 16, from SpringerLink database. Security & Reliability. (2010). Retrieved April 16, 2010, from http://www.gotomeeting.com/fec/secure_web_conferencing

Skype was founded in 2003 and is now a well known worldwide application on the internet. Skype has voice and video calling, IM and SMS systems and operates on a wide variety of mobile systems and differing operating systems. Skype uses a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system. Skype Business concentrates on allowing businesses to operate effectively by means of effective and fast communication whilst saving money on communication. Skype offers a Business Control Panel which they state that "You can allocate and manage your employees' Skype Credit balances centrally, plus keep track of their, and your company's, expenditure with built-in reporting tools." Skype offers a business version of the Skype Application which main features are "Main features * Free Skype-to-Skype calls. * Free video calls. * Free instant messaging. * Call phones and mobiles, send SMS. * Voicemail. * Forward calls to a phone when you're offline. * Screen sharing * Send contacts " Myhill et al sums up Skype by stating "Calls between Skype users are free and with a standard broadband internet connection, it is a simple matter to run other Web 2.0 applications (e.g. Google Documents) and Skype at the same time - so that collaborators can talk to each other in real time and even work on the same documents simultaneously. Skype has well-over 300,000 million accounts worldwide and is a very popular facility. In the context of the VRE, Skype offers additional, global communications benefits which take the researcher well beyond other, less-intrusive means such as e-mail or wikis." Brkan states that "Collaborating or doing business with different parts of the world is far easier when you can speak to people in realtime, without worrying about the phone bill." For online collaboration such as conferences Skype is a cheap and accessible alternative to other options.

References Brkan, B. (2090, September 22). 5 Ways Skype Helps Your Business | FreelanceSwitch. FreelanceSwitch | Freelance job listings, freelancers directory, resources and thousands of articles.. Retrieved April 11, 2010, from http://freelanceswitch.com/working/5-ways-skype-helps-your-business/ Myhill, M., Shoebridge, M., & Snook, L. (2009). Virtual research environments - a Web 2.0 cookbook?. Library Hi Tech, 27(2), 228-238. Retrieved October 10, 2010, from the Emerald Group Publishing Limited database. Skype for Business - solutions. (n.d.). Skype " Make free calls and great value calls on the internet. Retrieved April 11, 2010, from http://www.skype.com/intl/en/business/solutions/

As has been examined, Skype is a very useful tool for business in relation to both collaboration and the reduction of communication costs . InnerPass further extends Skype's reach in the area of collaboration. [1] Virtual meeting rooms and screen sharing are the main added areas of functionality, with the service offering a free plan for person use. The need for increased meeting rooms and increased data transfer storage attract business rates from $4.95 to $14.95 a month. As Mashable state "InnerPass is most useful for small or medium sized businesses that have a lot of travelling, presenting, or telecommuting built in" [2] References: 1. https://www.innerpass.com/ 2. InnerPass turns Skype into a Virtual Business Collaboration Tool retrieved 18th April 2010 from http://mashable.com/2009/04/07/innerpass/

"Interactive website tools for distance learning, online tutoring, collaboration and fun. Add whiteboard, chat, games, message boards, VOIP and web conferencing to your website by simply copying a few lines of HTML code. Over 100,000 created!"[1] Groupboard.com is an online collaborative whiteboard used for educational, business conferencing and entertainment purposes. Groupboard.com offers free software for businesses or individuals to add to their websites. Basically, the whiteboard acts as a real time drawing board. The software is offered in three distinct formats: groupboard (simple), groupboard designer (advanced) and groupworld.net. Groupboard (simple java whiteboard): This applet allows for simple text messaging and voice conferencing. Groupboard suggests that this format can be used for "tutoring, distance learning, training, or simply for fun!"[2] The whiteboard can handle picture uploads that can be drawn over, which may be particularly helpful in teaching for both education and businesses. Groupboard Designer (advanced): This is an advanced version, as this whiteboard can be used to add extras to the drawing capability, such as mathematical signs for teaching or the symbols used when an architect is compiling a blueprint. Groupworld.net: This format advances the whiteboard again by adding voice/video conferencing and desktop sharing capabilities to strongly enhance the collaborative environment.

Groupboard is an online whiteboard tool that can be used by educators, students, designers and anyone with a collaboratve project or task [1]. The Groupboard whiteboard can be added to a website and the Groupboard iPhone Applet allows for connectivity to the whiteboard via the iPhone [1]. Other online whiteboard collaboration tools include Virtual Whiteboard [2], Dabbleboard [3] and Vyew [4]. Virtual Whiteboard limits the length of time that a whiteboard is available for and their is a limit of four users per 15 minute collaboration session [2]. Dabbleboard's free package offers a whiteboard with unlimited users but they do not offer a website embedding option like Groupboard [3]. Vyew is a feature-rich online whiteboard application from the big-end of town. Vyew's customer page lists many positive testimonials from multi-national corporations, large educational institutions and collaboration tool reviewers [5]. Vyew does not offer a website embedding option like Groupboard. TechCrunch's review of Groupboard attests to its reliability and usefulness as a whiteboard tool [6]. Groupboard is free to use, offering good value for smaller educational groups or low-end designers. Groupboard is a relevant addition to this collaboration tool list. see References below

References [1] Groupboard. (n.d.). 'Groupboard: free online collaborative whiteboard and chat'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://www.groupboard.com/products/ [2] Foster, T. (2010). 'Virtual Whiteboard'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://www.virtual-whiteboard.co.uk/home.asp [3] Dabbleboard Inc. (2009). 'Dabbleboard - Online whiteboard for drawing & team collaboration - Interactive whiteboard software'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://www.dabbleboard.com/ [4] Simulat Inc. (2010). 'Vyew - FREE Anytime Collaboration and Live Web Conferencing'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://vyew.com/site/index3 [5] Simulat Inc. (2010). 'Customers - Vyew'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://vyew.com/site/customers/testimonials/ [6] TechCrunch. (2010). 'CrunchBase - Groupboard'. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://www.crunchbase.com/company/groupboard

Officemedium is an online collaborative package for business which offers centralized collaboration, client integration, security, organization and social platforming. One of the features of Officemedium is the client integration which allows the business to create user accounts for their clients which allows them to access only the information meant for them. The software is simplistic and centralised. According to Officemedium their product is "Unlike most business software, our application is easy to use and stripped of over-complicated, unnecessary clutter." Officemedium uses a concept of Clients, Employee and Super User which allows differing levels of access and integration. Whereas there are many business applications that are similar, ReadWriteStart which is a resource guide for first time businesses, describes officemedium as "Topping their list is Officemedium, a service we profiled last fall which provides a wide variety of collaborative features wrapped up in an elegantly designed interface." Business Pundit lists the advantage of Officemedium as follows: "Features: * Client integration * Contact information management * Task management * Event coordination * Personal and group calendars * File sharing and storage * Resource and document management * Shared blogging * Real-time chat * Private messaging * Status updates * User profiles * Polling * Searching and tagging * Email updates and notifications Continued...............

OfficeMedium is a "web-based intranet and social collaboration software" (McCue, 2010) allowing businesses to bring together their daily business and communication needs in one central location. OfficeMedium is targeted towards small and medium businesses, (About, n.d.) providing an application that is simple and easy to use. Since OfficeMedium provides a working environment online, it is accessible remotely (OfficeMedium, n.d.) and takes away the need for servers, installation and upgrade of software and data backups. (About, n.d.) The software provides "file sharing and storage, event and task management, contact and company information storage". (About, n.d.) In doing this, it places all data in a central location, avoiding dilemmas of misplaced data from unorganised methods of communication such as email, phone or instant message. These forms of communication can sometimes make it difficult to monitor and locate data on a particular project. Progress of all projects and anything related can be viewed through a simple dashboard which offers real-time collaboration. (OfficeMedium, n.d.) Some features include "task and event management, personal and group calendars, contact management, to file sharing and storage". (McCue, 2010) Managers, staff and clients can access and input information in these areas, depending on their user level. OfficeMedium allows three levels of users. (McCue, 2010) These levels determine the amount of access a user has. They are: Client: Allows least access. Can allow client to view and give feedback to documents. Employee: Greater access than client. Able to view a greater amount of data and can input content. Superuser: Has full access. Is able to see and manage all areas

Reference: About. (n.d.). Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://www.officemedium.com/about McCue, T. (2010). Small Business Collaboration Software: Office Medium. Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://smallbiztrends.com/2010/04/small-business-collaboration-software-office-medium.html OfficeMedium. (n.d.). Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://www.officemedium.com/

BigBlueButton is a brand new, free open source web-meeting platform ideally suited to Universities and Colleges for delivering Distance Education [1]. BigBlueButton runs on Mac, Unix and PC computers and desktop integration is available with VMWare, Ubuntu, Debian and RPM packages and Gentoo is currently in development [2]. BigBlueButton utilises 15 open source components and BigBlueButton's Demo shows how easily it supports video, chat and audio conferencing, PDF and PPT slide-sharing, and, Open Office Org files or Microsoft Office document sharing [3] [4] [5]. Three levels of users are moderator, presenter & viewers, the moderator can choose themselves, or others to be a presenter. The class presenter can share their desktop view with the rest of the class and directly message an individual student during a meeting [3]. The BigBlueButton site hosts a variety of tutorial demonstrations so prospective clients can become familiar with this feature-rich package [3]. The Demo page allows vistors to test run the product by joining a Demo Meeting [6]. Whilst BigBlueButton is an web-meeting platform for online conferences, the people from BigBlueButton do not provide hosting. Nevertheless BigBlueButton is easily downloaded and installed onto the education provider's own server space [7]. The package is coded with a clean, lean design that focuses on usability and multiple virtual classrooms can be run from a single BigBlueButton server [8]. Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada use BigBlueButton as a learning envrioment in their 'Systems and Computer Engineering' course [9]. see below for References

BigBlueButton is a web conferencing system that is specifically tailored for distance education [1], particularly for universities and colleges to allow high-quality e-learning [2]. It is open source and constantly under development. The system is Flash-based and allows sharing of slides, voice, chat, video and desktops [3]. Generally speaking, the system is well received; however there has been some criticism about the slowness of desktop sharing [4]. The system strongly utilises Open Source methodology by utilising existing apps and code to piece together and present a virtual classroom solution [4]. The use of Open Source can be positive in a corporate sense as it often has a large support community and the ability to conduct one's own development. BigBlueButton does not offer commercial hosting of its service, which is arguably why it is being pitched to universities (given access to considerable resources in the guise of students and IT staff) [5]. This may be a disadvantage in some respects; however a corporate organisation may consider this a better solution to wholly hosted applications, as a stronger level of control is possible. It has been reported that the developers are very hands on in regards to live demos of the product, which is comforting when trying to learn a new piece of software [6], however, the system is very new, which may deter some organisations from utilising until it is more proven.

[1] BigBlueButton. (2010). BigBlueButton Blog. Retrieved April 21, 2010, from http://bigbluebutton-blog.blogspot.com/ [2] BigBlueButton. (2010). Homepage. Retrieved April 21, 2010, from http://bigbluebutton.org/ [3] Asterisk Exchange. (2010). BigBlueButton. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.asteriskexchange.com/listings/165 [4] SetupLinux. (2010). BigBlueButton: Web conference and meeting room review. SetupLinux.com. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.setuplinux.com/2010/04/bigbluebutton-web-conference-and-meeting-room-review/ [5] Byrne. (2010). Big Blue Button - An Open Source Video Conferencing Platform. Free Technology for Teachers. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2010/03/big-blue-button-open-source.html [6] Lavolette, E. (2010). Push the BigBlueButton. Betsy's Eclection. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://betsylavolette.com/?p=928

LinkedIn is an interconnected network of experienced professionals and attracts and retains regular visitors from around the world [1], you can find, be introduced to, and collaborate with qualified professionals that can assist you to accomplish your goals. Successful organizations recognize the immense value of integrating their client-facing operations and internally-focused, department-centric views are discarded in favor of processes toward information-sharing, collaborate on projects, gather data, share and solve problems. [2] This type of collaborative profile networking results in greater business opportunities and generates insights from talents and knowledge from outside the organization. This, in turn allows organisations to recruit from the best talent. LinkedIn Groups [3] offer communities of professionals based on common interest, experience, affiliation, and goals. Stay in touch with organizations, schools, and companies that you are and were a part of, network with professionals with similar interests and goals, and collaborate in a professional community online.

...continued from post above.... Why does LinkedIn work so well for individuals? Network theorists such as Mark Granovetter and Albert-Laszlo Barabasi believe that professionals tend to network outside their usual group of friends when looking for career opportunities and usually belong to more than one network. [5] According to Pamela Rutledge, Ph.D. "this creates a connection that is psychologically more comfortable and conducive to a positive interaction. Call it transitive trust. The reciprocity and shared community of online networks builds a sense of camaraderie and trust between members and provides an element of emotional support". [5]

References: [1] Butow, E. & Taylor, K. (2008). 'How to succeed in business using LinedIn'. Amacom. Retrieved from URL: http://www.amacombooks.org/book.cfm?isbn=9780814410745&page=ReviewQuotes [2] 'Why LinkedIn? My Top Ten Reasons'. Powerful CMS. Retrieved from URL: http://www.powerfulcms.com/blog/0912/why-linkedin-my-top-ten-reasons [3] Burrus, D. (2010). 'Create Social Media Guidelines To Reach Your Customer'. Agency Sales, 40(3), 40-41,43-44. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID: 1991048841) URL: http://proquest.umi.com.dbgw.lis.curtin.edu.au/pqdweb?did=1991048841&sid=8&Fmt=6&clientId=22212&RQT=309&VName=PQD [4] 'LinkedIn Corporation; LinkedIn Expands Mobile Offerings With Global Release of Application for BlackBerry'. (2010, April). Computer Weekly News,238. Retrieved from ProQuest Computing. (Document ID: 2003639421) from URL: http://proquest.umi.com.dbgw.lis.curtin.edu.au/pqdweb?index=1&did=2003639421&SrchMode=2&sid=2&Fmt=3&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1271143698&clientId=22212 [5] Rutledge, P. Ph.D (2009). 'Why LinkedIn Works'. Positively Media: How we connect and thrive through emerging technologies. Psychology Today. Retrieved from URL: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/positively-media/200903/why-linkedin-works-the-strength-weak-ties

WizeHive is a collaboration platform which allows groups to share all sorts of information. Tools such as notes, calendars, files, tasks can be shared via email or within WizeHive. Workflow tools, form builder tools enable collaboration around business processes [1] Users are able to share videos, images and files by adding people to workspaces. Workspaces can be customized with corporate colours and logos and it is easily accessible via a browser with integrated email. There is also an integrated email where you can send files and notes via email to your WizeHive workspace for others to view [2]. It is ideal for project management where users are able to organize ideas and tasks for projects. Users are able to communicate and keep up to date with activities in real time as detailed in AppVita's (2009) review. Keeping track of conversations between users and managing communication is another useful function of this application. WizeHive is a free service for personal use and up to US$39 per month for the premium edition. A review from Tea (2009) highlights the ease with which users can contribute to WizeHive and the simple, uncluttered interface. Tea (2009) also emphasizes the crowded online collaboration tools market with the number increasing however with WizeHive's simplicity and powerful features makes it an option to consider. References [1] Organise and Share Information. Retrieved 12 April 2010 from http://www.wizehive.com/features/ [2] WizeHive: Collaborate Online. Retrieved 12 April 2010 from http://www.appvita.com/2009/06/27/wizehive-collaborate-online/ [3] Tea, K. (2009). Simple But Powerful - The Buzz That Drives WizeHive. Retrieved 13 April 2010 from http://www.web2andmore.net/2009/08/01/simple-but-powerful-the-buzz-that-drives-wizehive/

Wizehive - Online Collaboration and Organisational Tool Wizehive is an online collaborative and organisational tool that can be set up to track multiple tasks, activities and deadlines through the sharing of notes, files, and ideas within an individually tabbed workspace interface. It is an interactive application that can be accessed not only from your computer browser, but also through any email, a desktop client, or mobile communication device [1a]. Projects are divided into individual workspaces according to the teams that are working on them and/or the client. Each individual workspace displays as a tabbed file system with the follow categories and functions [1b]: 1. Recent Activity - set chronologically and in real time. o Displays feeds on all activities from all team members. o Instant reply can be facilitated o Notes, ideas and messages are shared between the team here o It can include text, graphics, links or uploaded files. o Information on this page can also be categorised to keep track of specific threads and ideas. 2. Files o Allows uploading, storing and sharing of files o Supports multiple file formats 3. Tasks o Displays all tasks connected to the project. o It identifies who is responsible for each task. o Records the status of each task. 4. Calendar o The calendar is integrated with the task system and identifies key target dates for each project. The application can also allow you to view all activities across all projects in one frame through the 'All' tab. The success of Wizehive was recently manifest within the use of its platform by TechCrunch to determine the top 50 applicants for the, "best new technologies of the year" [2]. CEO of TechCrunch, Heather Harde, stated that its, "…ability to easily collect ratings, make notes, and work collaboratively was fantastic".

References: [1a] Wizehive (2010) Organize and Share Informaiton. Retrieved on 14th April 2010 from http://www.wizehive.com/features/ [1b] Wizehive (2010) Organize and Share Information. Video. Retrieved on 14th April 2010 from http://www.wizehive.com/features/ [2] Wizehive (2010) TechCrunch50. Retrieved on 14th April 2010 from http://applicants.wizehive.com/applicant/success-stories/techcrunch50.html

http://www.swivel.com/ References [1] IPSN'07 Overview. Data sharing and Interoperability on the world-wide Sensor Web. http://research.microsoft.com/ [2] Features page 2010 from: http://www.swivel.com/ [3] Cuff, D et al. 2008 Urban Sensing: Out of the Woods. Communications of the ACM. Vol 51, No 3.Retrieved on 3/4/2010 from: http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.slv.vic.gov.au/ehost/

Swivel Co-founders Dmitry Dimov and Brian Mulloy describe their company as "YouTube for Data." The Swivel site allows users to upload any data and display it visually to other users. Users can upload any type of data for rating, commenting and bookmarking by other users. Graphs of the data can also be used and embedded into other websites. (Arrington, 2006) Any data on Swivel can be compared to any other data regardless of whether or not there is any correlation. Arrington (2006) remarks that it is possible to compare data as diverse as "gas prices to presidential approval ratings or UFO sightings to iPod sales". Not all data is made public though. Swivel provides a free service for public data but also offers a premium service whereby, for a fee, data can be stored privately, still allowing the owner to compare their private data to public data sets. (Arrington, 2006) In comparison to Swivel, similar data sharing capabilities are offered by IBM's Many Eyes http://manyeyes.alphaworks.ibm.com/manyeyes/. Many Eyes allows users to create more complex graphs such as network illustrations, which depict nodes and connections as well as treemaps that present data as groups of nested rectangles. (Butler, 2007) Brent Edwards, director of the Starkey Hearing Research Center in Berkeley, California, points out that journals could move science forward much more effectively by using the Internet to share information. He says "I'm often frustrated by my inability to analyse in a different way data that are printed in peer-reviewed publications, when I'm interested in looking at a relationship that the authors didn't think of". If journals and research organisations linked the raw data behind their papers to collaborative software tools such as Swivel and Many Eyes, he argues, "it would have considerable value to the scientific community as a whole". (Butler, 2007)

References Arrington, M. (2006, December 5). Swivel Aims To Become The Internet Archive For Data . TechCrunch . Retrieved April 7, 2010, from http://techcrunch.com/2006/12/05/swivel-to-launch-this-week-communitize-your-data/ Butler, D. (2007). Data sharing: the next generation. Nature, 446, 10-11. Many Eyes. (n.d.). Many Eyes. Retrieved April 7, 2010, from http://manyeyes.alphaworks.ibm.com/manyeyes/