First up, Google docs. Google Docs is a collection of free web-based productivity tools including word processing, spreadsheets, forms and presentations. The big advantage to using web-bases software is that it can be accessed from any computer with internet access (just like Delicious!). There is no need to use a flash drive or email an attachment to yourself. Your work resides on a remote server similar to email. Google docs also gives you the ability for document sharing and online collaboration. Multiple people can work on the same document simultaneously.
We have a great deal in common with schools and here are some teachers and technology gurus discussing the beauty of Google Docs and then a guide how it can make your life easier:
Now it’s time to create your own docs. Sign up for a Gmail account if you don’t have one already.
Some thoughts to consider:
- How can you use Google docs in your professional activities?
- Can you think of ways you could use it for personal tasks?
- What are some of the advantages of using Google docs instead of Microsoft Office products?
- In what situations would you recommend Google docs to patrons or students?
- Do you see any potential for library program or instruction using these tools?
Now Zoho Writer, which is another web based word processing software which allows for collaboration is very similar to Google Docs.
So, what's the difference between the two? Oh, a few things. Read Zoho vs. Goolge Docs and 5 Great Alternatives To Google Docs You Should Consider which makes a case for a non-Google option.
And lastly, Remember the Milk (RTM) enables you to put your to-do list online! So it's web-based task-and time-management. Who doesn't love lists! You can manage tasks from any computer as well as offline. Wikipedia, as usual, sums RTM up nicely. Webware awarded RTM one of the top 100 web apps spots in 2008. RTM can help those us who aren't inherently organized manage tasks and time. And RTM has apps for most smart phones to help you stay organized on-the-go. Wahoo!
Try integrating Remember the Milk with you Gmail account. Try integrating RTM with Gmail. Here's some help on how to do that. If you have a smart phone try to find an app for RTM and download.
Some thoughts:
- So do you think RTM's handy or annoying?
- How might RTM help you personally and professionally?
- Do you think it could be useful for collaboration?
- How do you think an organization can use this tool to help manage projects?
Zoho looks very interesting! I can’t wait to try it. Sometimes, I get frustrated with the limitations in Google docs formatting options.
ReplyDeleteI will have to try ZOHO and RTM. But Google docs we have been using for the past two years in the department and last year I had the brain wave to use it for summer reading registration. This way the Summer teen volunteers helped with entering the information for any public internet computer that was available. I keep statistics sheets which need to be filled by other staff members. We keep a track of new books to upload on to Bookletters.
ReplyDeleteWe use the google calendar for library programs.
I have also saved program ideas and interesting articles on google docs.