Google Software-as-a-service for businesses (The Cloud)

[Chunkford]

Anyone been using this?
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/business/index.html

Just in the process of setting up but be interested in what others views are on it, and the whole cloud thing.

[RuralWeb]

Its the future

[grantglendinnin]

Fundamentally, it's a good idea and well worth investigating.

From a business point of view, I wouldn't touch it with a barge pole. Just like those who use free e-mail accounts - there's always a risk it'll go up in smoke and you'll be left with nothing.

Good stuff, though

[TraceyHand]

might as well let Google rifle through your underwear drawer and be done with it!

[Chunkford]

Do you really think so Tracey? I don't find it a problem. Big brother is everywhere anyhow

Grant - I can't see Google pulling this, or going bust. Plus I'd probably be happy to pay the $50 a year for it

I really like it so far, everything in 1 place no matter where you are on what ever machine.

[leehack]

I've used this on and off for a few months for a company, correcting and showing a few people some spreadsheet formulas they were stuck on. I think the principle is great and it has worked well for me. Actinic could run their bug reporting down this kind of avenue .

[TraceyHand]

you're right, Paul.
I'm not knocking it as such...it was just a 'what next, Google?' remark really

[pinbrook]

I've been using google docs for a while now, its great for sharing xls etc.

I also find igoogle invaluable as i have all my bookmarked sites available ot me where ever i am.

I reckon all my work with the exception of actinic work is now off my desktop - ie in the cloud, webbased apps and online backup.

I must admit tracy's first comment does have an element of truth to it though

[Chunkford]

you're right, Paul.
I'm not knocking it as such...it was just a 'what next, Google?' remark really

They will hold and manage the national register for DNA and Identity Cards in their scalable cloud LOL

[mattc]

yep. Used it, recommended it and set it up for businesses and schools.

Its a very simple solution and you won't find many advanced features, but it makes very light work of things like user control.

I've done a couple of exchange transitions to it as well which were very successful.

The apps stuff isn't for everyone, but the email stuff works great.

I generally find people start out with it just for the email and then realize how powerful sites/docs and cal are.