For larger businesses, a social network group probably won’t suffice. What you need instead is a collection of web-based collaborative tools that help your team members not only communicate
with each other but also manage theirgroup projects.This type of solution is commonly known as groupware, and when it’s based in the cloud it’s called online groupware.
In a nutshell, groupware is collaboration software for workgroups. Online groupware does away with the physical constraints of traditional groupware, letting members from throughout an organization, in any location, access group assets.
What does this mean? In practicality, online groupware typically includes some or all of the following tools:
- File and document uploading and sharing
- Web calendar
- Task/project manager
Why use online groupware?
First of all, it puts all your group communications (and, in some cases, files) all in one place—and that one place is accessible to group members in any location, as long as they have an Internet connection.
Second, groupware makes it easier to communicate, which should reduce the number of meetings and conferences calls, as well as your email traffic.
Finally, all this should increase your group’s collective and members’ individual productivity. It’s as simple as that.For example, suppose you’re managing a community not-for-profit group.You can use online groupware to connect other managers and volunteers across the community. You can share plans, proposals, and other documents with all members, and use the groupware to solicit and receive proposals and invoices from suppliers. And, best of all, you can do this from your own computer, which means fewer phone calls, car trips, and unnecessary meetings all of which translates into less time involved and fewer expenses, both of which are important for charities. So read on to learn about some of the most popular online groupware applications.
Second, groupware makes it easier to communicate, which should reduce the number of meetings and conferences calls, as well as your email traffic.
Finally, all this should increase your group’s collective and members’ individual productivity. It’s as simple as that.For example, suppose you’re managing a community not-for-profit group.You can use online groupware to connect other managers and volunteers across the community. You can share plans, proposals, and other documents with all members, and use the groupware to solicit and receive proposals and invoices from suppliers. And, best of all, you can do this from your own computer, which means fewer phone calls, car trips, and unnecessary meetings all of which translates into less time involved and fewer expenses, both of which are important for charities. So read on to learn about some of the most popular online groupware applications.
