Online Collaboration
Source: Cynthia Hobbs
OSU DASNR IT Services and Support
Using the internet to communicate has become an important tool in our daily
work environment. Instead of phone calls about an upcoming event, one email
can communicate the details to a large group. But email can become tedious
when collaborating with others, especially when we want to edit the same
document at the same time from our offices. In this article, I will share a couple
tools that will make collaboration, in real time, quick and easy!
Adobe Connect- For many years, Centra was used for webinars and online
meetings. In July, we replaced this tool with Adobe Connect. Connect is a great
tool and is easy to use for meetings and webinars. To host a meeting, simply
contact your Computer Support Specialist and they will create a session. A link will
then be provided and you can send it to anyone who intends on participating. As
a host, you will want to make sure you have working speakers and a microphone
(a USB headset is highly recommended or something similar). If you would like, a
webcam can also be used. In Connect, you may upload files for sharing, present
from a PowerPoint, and can use instant message chat.
Google’s Tools- Google has provided a variety of tools for real time- online
collaboration. As you may know, Google Docs allows for documents to be created
and edited from any device or location and automatically syncs in real time (with
a Wi-Fi connection). But you may also share your files with others. Once the file is
shared, anyone with access to the file can simultaneously edit the document.
While it could become daunting, you can share your files with as many people as
you would like. In addition to Google Docs, Google Hangouts creates an online
chat room allowing for video conference calls, if that is something you are
interested. (Please note, while Google Hangouts is an available tool, if you need to
create a professional look, you may want to stick with Adobe Connect).
Dropbox, Google Drive and SkyDrive- In last month’s Extension Exchange
Newsletter, Levi Arnold talked about file storage tools. These same tools are also
great for collaborating. Dropbox, Google Drive and SkyDrive all have similar
features, and all allow for easy file sharing. Once the document is shared, the
document can be edited. And it’s as easy as choosing the file you want to share,
entering the email/username of the people you are sharing with, and hitting
“share”. All three file storage tools are free (unless you choose to increase the
amount of available storage on your account).
For further information or questions, contact your Computer Support Specialist.