Online Document Sharing
One of the challenges that companies with multiple offices face is the prospect of getting important files from one office to another. Inevitably, the tasks and goals of one office will tie into the efforts of another branch, and the information must be relayed in more detail than can reasonably be placed in a phone call. Online document sharing is one of the most prominent ways to accomplish this, and something that many offices look towards as a serious option.
Google Docs
Reportedly one of the first of its sort, Google Docs is a free service that allows businesses – even those heavily invested in outsourcing to the Philippines despite being located in the United States – to host their files online. The application is accessible from any computer with an Internet connection and allows for the files to be edited and saved over the Internet. There are some limitations on options available, but the core functions of basic office software are present. Companies also have the option of downloading the files, editing them offline with proper software, and uploading the edited versions. This is especially helpful in SEO outsourcing, where numerous documents need to be edited and revised simultaneously.
FTP servers
Not everyone is familiar with the use of file transfer protocol software, which requires some a central server. It does provide an online document sharing option that the company can secure and tailor to its own needs. As with Google Docs and similar services, the company can upload or download files as needed, and the speed is determined solely by the stress placed on the server and the user’s Internet connection. Unlike other collaboration tools, there is no way to edit them online.
Risks
One of the major problems with online document sharing is that, sooner or later, those files may get hacked. It doesn’t matter how well-secured the online document sharing service is, it’s possible to hack it eventually. This is a remote risk, though. A more likely risk would be concurrent changes. One problem with these services is that very few offer the ability to work on things at the same time. While it is possible, it is only to a limited extent, and there are times when changes made later will erase any changes made earlier, even if that was not the intent.
Online document sharing can be useful in a business, especially if it needs to have its files available at all times to a lot of personnel. The technology doesn’t quite exist yet to make the system perfect, and there are always security risks to consider. However, for businesses outsourcing to the Philippines, the option saves a lot of time and resources.
Related posts: