Adobe has a new beta program released called Acrobat.com. At Acrobat.com, once you register, you have access to a variety of tools that help with day to day tasks, as well as giving you the ability to collaborate, through the web, with co-workers. The variety of free tools make workplace collaboration a breeze--there is Buzzword, Create PDF, Share, Connect Now, and lastly My Files. What makes this special, compared to a few competitors, is that everything is web based---the only thing needed is the most recent version of Flash Player.
Buzzword: basic word processor with the ability to access files anywhere, collaboration with other team members assigned one of 3 roles for level of document access, the ability to add comments which will be a different color based on contributor, version history and real time status on the document being worked on.
Create PDF: allows you to create a PDF from a myriad of file types such as text, Microsoft Office, Star Office, Word Perfect, and various image files. There is a 5 document conversion limit; once the limit is attained, you either have to purchase Acrobat or subscribe to the Create Adobe PDF Online service.
Share: Allows you to store files online and then send a URL to collaborators to gain access to the shared file, rather than sending a large file attachment on an email. It allows you to create a list of recipients for access to the file which can be manipulated at any time. It also allows you to copy the HTML of the file in question to then paste into code view for a web-site.
My Files: this is fore the files you wish to upload to Acrobat.com; there is a maximum limit of 5 GB of storage space. However, you cannot upload audio files, video files, font files, archive formats, system and executable files, web files, database files, or raster image files.
Connect Now: allows you to do screen sharing, chat, create notes, have video teleconferencing, all requiring no special downloads; all that is necessary is Flash Player.
All of this is free by setting up an account at Acrobat.com!
This move by Acrobat is taking a direct swipe at Google Docs, and has been very well received by individuals based on its slick interface and ease of use. Additionally, this can be foiled against the Microsoft Workspace, which has the basic appearance of a SharePoint environment. Adobe is leveraging its workplace notoriety to provide a simple solution for organizations that don't want to implement SharePoint Services. Acrobat.com is a simple environment, but does have its quirks based on its Beta testing status. All told, it is an interesting addition to the ever more crowded web based office solutions environment. In time, there will be a more robust system for individuals who wish to pay a yearly fee, while a more basic version of the completed project will still exist for those who don't wish to pay for more advanced content.
If you are interested in learning more about the product offerings, please go to Acrobat.com
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