Online collaboration offers limitless possibilities for today’s modern worker.
Synchronization, file sharing, collaborative editing, and discussion boards are just a few features you can have in a single collaborative tool. However, one’s collaborative needs can go beyond these.
For instance, the latest in online collaboration, Google Wave, has merged email, wikis, IM, and social networking together in order to bridge the communication gaps–however tiny, that are still prevalent with online collaboration (eg. missed emails, editing discrepancies, time gaps between file versions, etc.).
Google Wave’s super-connected nature has won over millions of users looking for such a solution. But the service is accessible by invite only.
If you need something just as versatile and rich in features, never fear. There are a number of great alternatives that can offer up a handful of features that supersede the average file host.
To prove it, here are 10 that will definitely suit your modern tech needs and preferences.
1. Shareflow
A collaboration tool that gives you more organizational control over the content you collaborate on by weeding out the unnecessary noise that can clutter a group meeting.
Communicate with others in “flows” (threads) where you can post images, links and events; or add videos, maps and web clips directly from your email.
2. Slatebox
This web application can act as a mind mapping tool as well as a collaboration tool. It works based on the idea of creating diagrams, ideas and charts, etc. using “slates”.
This is great for projects as you can share your ideas online with others under one shared account.
3. Dabbleboard
Specializes in collaboration around the whiteboard where anyone conduct presentations, and discuss ideas in real time. Features include unlimited undo and redo, drag and drop functionality, and shape recognition so that your freehand drawing is as clean as possible.
4. Redmark
Designed especially for graphic design collaboration, Redmark helps connect graphic designers and clients by enabling them to upload or comment on portfolio and sample designs, right in the Interface.
5. Drop.io
A fully-featured file-sharing service. It doesn’t require you to sign up if you want to set up a “drop” or shared space. To take full advantage of the service though, you might want to register. The drops you create will expire within a year.
6. DropBox
Works on various platforms including Windows, Linux, and Mac. You can synchronize documents using all three. To collaborate, the file folder needs to be shared in the web interface.
7. Live Mesh
This tool enables users to sync and share folders online. Create folders where you can update and upload files, and chat with others on MSN about its contents.
The unique feature of this tool is that it works on the Windows and Mac OS X systems and on mobile devices so you can manage your “mesh” anywhere.
8. Thinkature
Works the way you would offline. Thinkature features unique tools that let you focus and point out objects to your group, show relationships between “cards”, add images to your meeting, and floating toolbars for editing your cards quickly. It also features voice chat for instant collaboration.
9. Box.net
Creating a shared workspace using Box.net is easy and hassle-free. Once you create a folder, you can organize, view, edit, and add content for collaboration.
Other features include the ability to create wiki-style web docs; approving, and reviewing files; and tracking and searching for files. Box.net is also accessible to mobile devices.
10. ShowDocument
This is a web meeting collaboration tool. It offers a shared whiteboard, a shared Word/Text editor, and the ability to annotate Google Maps and YouTube Video clips. Comes with live chat and drawing tools. Just upload a file and invite other participants.
