Google docs in plain english
Posted by Mark Winegar on August 6, 2008
Have you ever wanted to collaborate on a document with a remote colleague? Here’s a cool way to do it.
I had my first working exposure to Google docs monday evening. I knew what it was but I’m a bit of a lone wolf and like to work alone on my projects. I think that’s because of all of the hassles involved in dealing with multiple versions of a file.
Anyway a friend was perplexed by a complex project she is working on and the deadline is approaching, Her project is funded by a grant so its important she gets it done on time. The problem is that her users are non-technical and scope creep is running rampant. She tried to explain her dilemma to me on Microsoft Messenger but it we were having too many mental disconnects. Google docs to the rescue!
My friend opened up a google doc spreadsheet and we started mapping out the system requirements. It was way cool! We worked on the document together clarifying the specifications. I posted my questions in red. She’d answer. I’d ask others questions until we reached a consensus and only then changed the text back to black.
Will I use Google Docs again? You bet. One of my most popular classes is an entry-level computer science course in the use of Microsoft Office. The main focus is on mastering Word, Excel, and PowerPoint which are the applications supported by Google Docs. So now I have an excellent tool for working with students on technical issues from a remote location.
I like it and I think my students will too!
