Collaborating through text and images
This module outlines the technologies that can allow two or more people to interact without the need for audio or visual contact. A new generation of team members, well accustomed to chats, BBS, newsgroups, SMS and other media that allow the exchange of ideas with simple and short text messages, will feel comfortable having discussions while performing other tasks or having knowledge exchange sessions that complement the tasks with questions, hints and tips. This can be accomplished very easily with desktop sharing tools that allow people working in different corners of the planet to share computer screens in order to understand complex processes and solve problems. The main difference between the two technologies is the number of people involved in the discussion. While instant messaging tools are suitable for a few people to exchange ideas in an informal manner, larger meetings require more preparation and a different technology set: web conferencing. Meeting organisers can mix these two technologies with audio conferencing to attain a high level of efficiency when clear procedures are in place.
The chapter 18 of the Global Project Management book brings some recommendations for the evaluation, implementation and documentation of these tools in your company.
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