To be more productive in the workplace, you don’t need to be a tech guru. There are simple and free software programs that can help you communicate with your colleagues and facilitate collaboration.
These software programs are free and can simplify your life. Each program allows you to work from wherever and whenever you want.
* Skype. Create a Skype account for free and send instant messages to your computer. It is helpful to have your microphone and camera connected to your computer. You can try it at www.skype.com.
* join.me. This program allows you to share your desktop. Sign up for the free account to send 250 colleagues to http://join.me. After they have entered the nine-digit code you provided, they can view your desktop and files. This is great for group editing, training, and meeting.
* Open Office. You can create spreadsheets, documents, and presentations without Microsoft Office. Open Office is a free open-source suite that can be installed on your computer. You won’t be able to tell that it can save or open Office files. More details are at http://openoffice.org.
* Google Docs. Google Docs lets you host documents free of charge, so anyone can see them. Go to http://docs.google.com to download your file, then share it as a link or send an e-mail to collaborators. You can adjust the settings to allow other users to edit the document, track changes and limit their viewing to only certain people. Although you don’t need Gmail, you must create a Google account.
* Tungle.me. It is possible to have problems sorting through your date books using Microsoft Outlook, Google Calendar or iCal. Tungle.me allows you to sync these calendars, and offers a place where others can schedule time with your — without you having to be involved. Visit http://tungle.me to find out more.
