Groupware

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## Introduction[edit | edit source]

A groupware, also called collaborative software, is a software that supports multiusers tasks on the same platform. Instead of a workflow processed-centered task, groupwares enable a workflow information-centered task in which all actors can access and modify an information.

Groupwares aren't only softwares that permit to share and access the same information. Groupware also includes:

* document sharing and document management
* group calendaring and scheduling
* group contact and task management
* threaded discussions
* text chat
* data conferencing and audio and videoconferencing
* workflow, which allows messages and documents to be routed to the appropriate users, is often part of a groupware system.

## Typology[edit | edit source]

Here is a not so complete typology of different kinds of systems (including a few examples)

* "Mainstream" centralized groupware that also provide workflow facilities.
* MS SharePoint
* Lotus Notes
* PhProjekt (Open source)
* Social web applications
* Ning (Social web apps server)
* Peer-to-peer groupware
* Groove
* Computer-supported collaborative learning systems (CSCL)
* Knowledge Forum
* Computer-supported cooperative work systems (CSCW)
* Content management systems and learning management systema always include some groupware components
* Forums, in particular more complex forums that allow e.g. file attachments
* BSCW
* Wikis, in particular ones that include additional features such as uploads, special discussion pages, and other "sharing" modules.
* Tikiwiki (Open source Wiki/CMS/Groupware)
* Mediawiki

.... in fact, most portals can be used as groupware.

## Resources[edit | edit source]

* The unOfficial Yellow Pages of CSCW
* Groupware links
* Computer Supported Cooperative Work
* CSCW Centers