For the past year or so, our company has been gradually using more web-based applications as part of our daily work. So far, the process has been an unqualified success. Cloud computing not only allows us to work more efficiently but it has given us new resources that open the door to a whole new way of thinking about creativity and collaboration.
Google Documents is my favorite web based application because of its simplicity, flexibility, and safety. We use it in place of Word as an online library for tracking task lists, process documents, and similar information. Because documents can be changed (and changes tracked), they can be used by groups to coordinate checklists, sign off on forms, and coordinate content development and revisions. The files behave like familiar word processor documents; they are easy to learn and can grow and evolve if they need to. Also importantly – we can back up all of our documents locally in just one step.
The new workflows have transformed the way we coordinate projects, both internally and with our clients. It’s helped us have more focused, streamlined communication with our clients and helped us focus on the creative elements of our work. I anticipate a future where all of our work takes place “in the cloud,” until then, I’m appreciative to have such a powerful, easy to use suite of tools available free. Thanks, Google, for another great project.
