For anyone who is interested in an alternative enterprise instant messaging, web hosting or online communications service, the Lotus Sametime software suite is a substantial resource. Lots of businesses have gone with this product line over a more traditional software package.

Among the fans of Lotus Sametime are some business operators who are against what they call proprietary aspects of software from tech giant Microsoft. Different buyers have their own points of view, but for some, the independent nature of the Lotus Sametime package is an incentive to pick up Lotus Sametime products for online communication. With Lotus programs, buyers can take on tasks like:

1. Setting up workstations for interactivity like shared file systems or remote working, where Lotus Sametime can link up the workstations to accommodate this type of remote job.

2. For basic messaging between workstations and time-stamped chat where a Lotus Sametime vendor helps out with logistics for remote solutions.

3. For full-scale audio/video and online link-ups from a Lotus Sametime supplier for having big online meetings and getting work done across many different cities.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get basic messaging and communications with Lotus Sametime Entry

Lotus Sametime Entry is the more basic version of this enterprise instant messaging service. Entry provides encrypted multi-way chat, contact handling, time stamps and more. It's a way for businesses to get proven messaging services at affordable rates.

I recommend: Find Lotus Sametime Entry direct from IBM's Lotus Sametime Entry website. The site provides live chat with a representative to talk about the features of the Lotus Sametime service. Or get low-cost Lotus Sametime online shopping and more information from third party vendor Consumer Depot.

Find Lotus Sametime Unyte products for web hosting

The Lotus Sametime Unyte line of software is for businesses that want to provide hosting for online events like trainings, videoconference or other special meetings. Lotus provides these various services to get audio and video running over the web.

I recommend: Lotus Sametime Meeting has an integrated Web and audio conferencing with an easy-to-use Web browser interface that lets managers truly handle a web event. For desktop sharing, remote assistance and more of those services often needed in a dynamic business environment, clients can get Lotus Sametime software like Lotus Sametime Share. This feature-rich desktop sharing program integrates with other Lotus software for powerful i management.

Consider Lotus Sametime Standard

The Lotus Sametime Standard line is a step up from the feature set of Entry. Lotus Sametime Standard includes items like Location Awareness as well as more interoperability with telephony and audio/video systems. Look for Lotus Sametime Standard in its evolving versions to get your office on the cutting edge of web communications.

I recommend: Get the trial version of Lotus Sametime Standard from the IBM website. OR use the Buyers Option page to get a full licensed version of this software to power up your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When buying Lotus Sametime for sale online, stay involved in figuring out the scope of your needs for messaging and interactivity. Ask yourself if you will use enhanced features, how many users or workstations need to be added or for how long you want to be tied to the software.