Online Collaboration

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.