Gone are the days when we had to purchase software, sometimes at great expense, for each process on our computers, e.g., word processing, photo editing, calendars, planners, presentations, etc. Now, these web-based applications are available (usually for free.) Using web-based applications is sometimes called "computing in the cloud." Check out a fuller list of applications here.
Aside from the cost benefits, a major advantage these applications is that you no longer have the problem of different software versions or file types as you email documents or move from PC to PC.
Another bonus is that they easily accommodate collaboration by allowing multiple users to edit the same file (with versioning) and provide users the ability to easily save and convert documents as multiple file types (including HTML and pdf). And, you can even use many of these tools, such as Zoho Writer and Google Docs to author and publish posts to your blog.
It’s this type of integration with other Web 2.0 tools that also makes web-based productivity tools so appealing.
This week's challenge:
1. Take a look at a web-based word processing tool called Zoho Writer (this site will also be blocked by Web Marshall). From the Public Internet or Learning Centre computers, open a free acount on Zoho. Create a simple document and then document your discoveries in your blog.
If you are up to the challenge, you might even export your document as an HTML file or publish it through Zoho to your blog. With Zoho and web-based applications, the possibilities are endless.
Note: If you prefer, you can do the same exercises in Google Documents (Use your gmail login that you created in Week 1.)
2. Check out the photo editing site Picnik. This site allows you to manipulate your images online without the need for expensive photo editing software. Try editing at least one image from your own files, or one you downloaded to Flikr or your page on MySpace. Have some fun with it and see what effects you can add to jaz up your image. Add a post to your blog explaining how you edited your image. Remember to add your edited image to your blog.
Note: While packed with great features, this web based application will not produce images good enough for paper based printing. It is ideal for web based applications - images for blogs and websites.
3. Survey tools are now available on the web free. Check out SurveyMonkey or Zoomerang. Think of a purpose to use these services to survey our library customers on-line and post your ideas to your blog.
