Groupware Software Basics

Find out what type of groupware business collaboration software is right for your business

It's essential that you familiarize yourself with groupware software basics before making a purchase. Groupware is collaboration software that provides a variety of resources for people to work together.

Groupware is often divided into synchronous and asynchronous software. Synchronous applications allow users to interact with each other while they are online. Asynchronous applications allow people to share information, even when they aren't all connected. Within these categories are several types of applications. Some groupware for small business includes:

1. Shared file software for collaborating on files and sharing calendars and projects;

2. Team collaboration tools that can be used even when users are offline;

3. Email and web conferencing that allow users to keep in touch when connected.

 

Get an overview of groupware software developers

There are so many groupware software applications available that making a choice can be overwhelming. Get an idea of the types of software that exist and think of ways that they can be integrated into your operations.
Try: Usability First provides a good overview of groupware and the types of software available. ThinkofIt offers an extensive review of conferencing and forum software providers.

Check out providers of hosting services for small business groupware

Many companies provide groupware hosting services. Finding out what these companies have to offer is a good way to get an overview of groupware and to try out software before committing to purchasing hardware and software.
Try: SiteGround and Enlighten Hosting provide groupware hosting services. Applications include shared calendars, scheduling applications and email solutions. Both companies also provide a good overview of groupware software.

Find out about popular multi-user software

Several major software providers offer comprehensive groupware software. They include calendars, email and other collaborative features for business enterprises. Software can be adapted for use by businesses of all sizes. These solutions usually require some investment in infrastructure, including a server and workstations.
Try: IBM offers Lotus and Domino collaboration tools, including email and calendaring. Microsoft offers the widely used Outlook and other collaboration tools.

Share information with a collaboration system

Wiki applications allow employees to collaborate and share information even when they aren't all connected. Wiki software can be used to create web pages and share information through a browser.
Try: Concentric offers Wiki applications that allow users to easily set up collaboration pages. BrainKeeper applications include blogs and forums to stay connected.

Use web conferencing team tools

Web conferencing allows users in different locations to get together for online meetings. It can be used to provide training, share information and work on projects.
Try: GoToMeeting from Citrix and Cisco's WebEx are two online conference providers. They offer pay-as-you-go services as well as subscriptions.

 

• Take advantage of free trials offered by groupware software providers. Use the applications first to make sure they meet your team's needs.

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