Page 203 - DCAP609_CLOUD_COMPUTING

Cloud Computing

Notes members of the group about what progress is taking place? You use Groupware software to
determine that progress.

13.2.1 What is Groupware?

Take any software that permits groups to communicate with individual members better and
you have groupware. There are a variety of programs that you can use for groupware. These
include scheduling, email, task management, chats, newsgroups, project collaboration, shared
phonebooks, and shared contacts. Even social network programs like Facebook and Twitter are
examples of groupware because they inform others in the group about what is happening to the
project.
Among the advantages of Groupware is the inclusion of a central repository where files or
documents are stored. Groupware also includes document version management or document
versioning as well as a change management system. You can also have shared calendars and task
management.
Start Communication

Once you have determined what the business project is that you have in mind, you can start
communication. All the participants of groupware do not have to be in the same location.
Communication can be remote and long distant.

Allow Communication
Most software allows communication only to one person. It is hard to transfer a document to an
entire group, for example, have it modified and changed, and send it back to the original person,
where the cycle can start over again. But with Groupware, you can keep track of the changes,
who made them, and how they affect the project. This is revision control, and with collaboration,
which is one of the hallmarks of Groupware, it allows communication to be possible.

Telecommuting
Personal presence is not necessary. A project can be manned by individuals in distant locations
and still make timely and important contributions. This can save time and cut expenses. It can
guarantee that meetings or deadlines can be met, that changes can be performed in a timely
manner, and that all persons can participate.

No Travel Costs

Groupware can save expenses because travel will not be an impediment to the performance of
the team. Thus project costs will also be less. Team members can perform their specific functions
wherever they are and are not relegated to specific locations.

Solving Problems

But perhaps the most important advantage of groupware is the constant effort made to complete
the project in a timely manner. Everyone can see the progress that is made, the changes to
pursue, the parts that must be finished. Problem-solving can be an ongoing feature because
anyone on the team can make contributions to the project and suggest solutions, even if they are
not directly involved in a specific part.

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