Setting up a virtual office with web tools
During the six months I've been writing for Weblogs Inc, I've only met with coworkers twice. But that doesn't mean we don't communicate. Bloggers make liberal use of email, chats, and other tools to keep in touch with one another. But the truth is, there's a whole world of tools out there that are making it easier than ever for teams to collaborate on projects, be they websites, software design, or entrepreneurial ventures.
Alex Iskold at Read/WriteWeb has a great tutorial on using software to set up a virtual office. Some of the software is commercial, while other programs are freeware. And while Iskold gives his recommendations in each category, he also lists alternate programs you might want to check out.
The article covers communication tools (Skype), project management software (BaseCamp), presentation tools (GoToMeeting) for showing coworkers what's on your display, Calendars (Google), Code repositories for software developers (CVSDude), accounting software (Quickbooks), and a backup system (ElephantDrive).
What do you think? Do you work in a virtual office? How does it compare to your old office job? Is it easier or harder to get work done? How important are Web 2.0 tools to your collaborative efforts?
Alex Iskold at Read/WriteWeb has a great tutorial on using software to set up a virtual office. Some of the software is commercial, while other programs are freeware. And while Iskold gives his recommendations in each category, he also lists alternate programs you might want to check out.
The article covers communication tools (Skype), project management software (BaseCamp), presentation tools (GoToMeeting) for showing coworkers what's on your display, Calendars (Google), Code repositories for software developers (CVSDude), accounting software (Quickbooks), and a backup system (ElephantDrive).
What do you think? Do you work in a virtual office? How does it compare to your old office job? Is it easier or harder to get work done? How important are Web 2.0 tools to your collaborative efforts?













Comments
2
Subscribe to commentsKin LaneMar 2nd 2007 2:41AM
I am intrigued by the different overviews I am finding on different blogs about how to complete a virtual office.
I try to work as much as I can in a virtual office. Very Google Home Page oriented and google apps. Enjoy the way I can customize my desktop to use google apps and any others I want.
Sometimes it is hard to use the web office for everything. It just takes adjusting your perspective.
Online apps and collaboration is becoming more important in my business activities.
Eve SheridanMar 1st 2007 10:54PM
I have been working in a virtual office since I started having children (6 years now). Skype has been an excellent tool for me to communicate with my coworkers. I have worked with quite a few people that I have never met but just spoken to with Skype. I find I can be much more efficient and there is no travel time. The flexible working hours are fantastic...especially with children.
I also use MPMM project management methodology http://www.mpmm.com software....it is fantastic!