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	<title>MakeUseOf.com &#187; desktop sharing</title>
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	<link>http://www.makeuseof.com</link>
	<description>Cool Websites, Software and Internet Tips</description>
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		<title>How To Create &amp; Share Screencasts On Twitter With Screenr</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-create-share-screencasts-on-twitter-with-screenr/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-create-share-screencasts-on-twitter-with-screenr/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2009 20:01:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mahendra Palsule</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Web Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[screencast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=26240</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I recently tried to report a bug in a web app to their support helpdesk, but unfortunately they could not easily recreate it. In times like these, nothing can beat the immense utility of screencasts. I simply had to perform the steps that created the problem, and tweet the screencast to their helpdesk. Even if [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="margin-right:20px" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/ScreenrLogo.png" border="0" alt="ScreenrLogo" vspace="5" align="left" />I recently tried to report a bug in a web app to their support helpdesk, but unfortunately they could not easily recreate it. In times like these, nothing can beat the immense utility of screencasts. I simply had to perform the steps that created the problem, and tweet the screencast to their helpdesk. Even if you have never created a screencast before, you will find that it is dead-easy using <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/screenr-screencast-twitter/">Screenr</a>.</p>
<p>Of course, that is just one scenario where screencasts are useful. Some other popular examples where screencasts are used include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Showing off your skills at using Photoshop or some other complex app</li>
<li>Creating “How To” videos for use in your blog posts</li>
<li>Creating e-Learning tutorials</li>
</ul>
<p><span id="more-26240"></span></p>
<h3><strong>How to Create Screencasts With Screenr</strong></h3>
<p><a href="http://screenr.com/">Screenr</a> makes creating and sharing screencasts very simple. You need to have the <a href="http://java.com/en/download/manual.jsp">Java Runtime Environment</a> (JRE) installed on your system and the Java plugin enabled in your browser, but Screenr itself is a web app so you don’t need to install it. Screenr will prompt you to automatically install Java if you don’t have it, hence there is no need to install it separately beforehand.</p>
<p>Screenr works on both PCs and Macs. Screencasts are created in high-definition Flash format so they can be played everywhere on the web, including on iPhones. You can also use your microphone to record your voice during the screencast. Screenr is used exclusively with Twitter and all screencasts are public. For other options, you should check out <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-free-screencasting-apps-for-creating-video-tutorials/">5 Free Screencasting Apps for Creating Video Tutorials</a>.</p>
<h3><strong>Create Your Screencast</strong></h3>
<p>For the sake of this article, let&#8217;s say I want to create a screencast of a walkthrough of the new Microsoft Security Essentials anti-virus software.</p>
<p>Go to Screenr and login directly with Twitter using OAuth. Clicking the <strong>Record your screencast now!</strong> button loads the recorder. You can record screencasts of up to 5 minutes length.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Recorder" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Recorder.png" border="0" alt="how to create screencasts" width="577" height="354" /></p>
<p>In the recorder, you can select the audio option for your screencast. For our example, I minimized the browser window, and loaded the Security Essentials window. I then resized the recorder window to fit the Security Essentials window. This optimizes the screencast for clarity as well as download size.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Recorder on App" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/RecorderonApp.png" border="0" alt="how to create screencasts" width="577" height="380" /></p>
<p>After clicking the red Record button, I viewed all the tabs in the Security Essentials app, as if I were performing a walkthrough. All my actions are automatically recorded. When I was finished, I clicked <strong>Done</strong>.</p>
<h3><strong>Publish and Share Your Screencast</strong></h3>
<p>When you are finished, you are automatically taken to the Screenr website, where you can preview, describe, publish, and share your screencast. You have the option of tweeting your screencast automatically or do it separately. Once you publish, you can see Screenr making web and iPhone versions of your screencast and uploading them.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Screencast on Screenr" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/ScreencastonScreenr.png" border="0" alt="how to create screencasts on twitter" width="577" height="441" /></p>
<p>The Share section on the right lets you embed your screencast on a blog, upload it to YouTube, download an mp4 version, or delete it from your profile. Here is the sample screencast I created using Screenr:</p>
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="560" height="345" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="flashvars" value="i=16745" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="src" value="http://screenr.com/Content/assets/screenr_0817090731.swf" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="345" src="http://screenr.com/Content/assets/screenr_0817090731.swf" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="i=16745"></embed></object></p>
<p>When you share screencasts on Twitter via Screenr, users who view your screencast can share and comment on them. They can ReTweet your screencast to share it with others, and their comments are sent to you as Twitter @Replies.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" style="border: 0pt none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Retweet Section" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/RetweetSection.png" border="0" alt="create screencast free" width="577" height="192" /></p>
<p>Will you use Screenr for your screencasting needs? Did you find it easy to use? Tell us in the comments!
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
	<ul class="st-related-posts">
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-tips-getting-the-most-out-of-your-screencasts/" title="Make The Perfect Screencast With These 6 Great Tips (July 17, 2009)">Make The Perfect Screencast With These 6 Great Tips</a> (22)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/" title="7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free) (September 13, 2007)">7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free)</a> (45)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/whos-following-you-on-twitter-and-are-you-following-them/" title="Who&#8217;s Following You on Twitter and are You Following Them? (October 13, 2008)">Who&#8217;s Following You on Twitter and are You Following Them?</a> (11)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/tweet-from-inside-gmail-with-twittergadget/" title="Use Twitter From Gmail With TwitterGadget (December 12, 2008)">Use Twitter From Gmail With TwitterGadget</a> (4)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/quick-screencasting-using-quicktime-x-in-mac-snow-leopard/" title="Use Quicktime X in Mac Snow Leopard for Easy Screencasting (September 17, 2009)">Use Quicktime X in Mac Snow Leopard for Easy Screencasting</a> (4)</li>
</ul>

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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Make The Perfect Screencast With These 6 Great Tips</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-tips-getting-the-most-out-of-your-screencasts/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-tips-getting-the-most-out-of-your-screencasts/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 21:00:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Wez Pyke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[How-To]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[screencast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tutorials]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=20558</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Over the years screencasting, also known as video tutorials have became very popular on the internet. The reason that they have became so popular is because it lets a user record their screen and share it with others to show them how to do something on a computer.
If you browse through sites such as YouTube, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="margin-right:20px" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/img_screenflow.jpg" alt="" vspace="5" align="left" />Over the years <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/screencast/">screencasting</a>, also known as video <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/tutorials/">tutorials</a> have became very popular on the internet. The reason that they have became so popular is because it lets a user record their screen and share it with others to show them how to do something on a computer.</p>
<p>If you browse through sites such as <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/youtube/">YouTube</a>, <a href="http://www.vimeo.com">Vimeo</a> and <a href="http://www.blip.tv">Blip.tv</a>, you will see that there are lots of video tutorials but with very few of them clear to view and understand.</p>
<p>There are many things that are needed to create a great video tutorial and in this article, I will try my best to teach you some techniques I have learned along the way.</p>
<h3>The Right Apps</h3>
<p>To start creating a screencast, the you will need to first of all download an application that will allow you to record your screen. For <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/service/mac">Mac OS X</a>, there are a few applications such as <a href="http://store.shinywhitebox.com/ishowuhd/main.html">iShowU</a>, <a href="http://www.telestream.net/screen-flow/overview.htm">ScreenFlow</a> and <a href="http://www.synium.de/products/screenium/index.html">Screenium</a>. You can try out these apps by downloading them from their website. However, to be able to use the full functionality, you will have to purchase a license. If you are a Windows user then I recommend using <a href="http://www.techsmith.com/camtasia.asp">Camtasia Studio</a> because it has a lot of great features. Camtasia Studio for Windows is very similar to ScreenFlow for Mac OS X.</p>
<p>A <strong>free</strong> alternative for both Windows and Mac OS X is <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/free-alternatives-to-10-popular-commercial-mac-applications-part-2/"><strong>Jing</strong></a>. Jing is a screen capture tool from the creators of Camtasia Studio but has been created specifically for screencasts. Although the application can be used without any real limits, the only downside is that the limit on a single recording is five minutes.</p>
<p>For Linux users, there is an open source project on Sourceforge called <a href="http://xvidcap.sourceforge.net/">Xvidcap</a>.<br />
<span id="more-20558"></span></p>
<h3>Set The Right Resolution</h3>
<p>The first thing to do when creating a screencast for the online audience is to set your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Display_resolution">screen resolution</a> to the lowest possible setting.</p>
<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-20562" title="Screen Resolution" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/1-screenres-1.jpg" alt="Screen Resolution" width="570" height="356" /></p>
<p>The reason why we do this is so that we can record as much of the screen without losing too much quality when we compress the screencast after we have finished recording. Also, when viewers on video sharing websites view it at full screen mode then the screencast dimensions will most likely be smaller than their resolution. This means that they will be able to see everything clearly including the text.</p>
<h3>The Right Gear</h3>
<p>When creating a screencast, it is very important that viewers can understand what you are saying so that they can easily follow what you are trying to teach or show. For this reason, it is <strong>not recommended</strong> that you use the microphone that is built into your laptop because there is a chance that they will hear the fan and you may sound distant and unclear.</p>
<p>If you are going to create a screencast then invest in a standalone microphone or a headset. The headset that I use is the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/webcam_communications/internet_headsets_phones/devices/3622&amp;cl=gb,en">Logitech ClearChat Pro headset</a> and it works great.</p>
<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-20560" title="headset" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/headset.jpg" alt="headset" width="403" height="413" /></p>
<h3>The Right Words</h3>
<p>If you are doing a screencast for a video tutorial on how to create a script in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PHP">PHP</a>, for example; it is a good idea to perform a test run, create the script and think about what you would say at certain steps and making notes so that you can best describe what you are trying to get across. If you are creating a long screencast,it is better to <strong>pause the recording</strong> a take a break for a few minutes because if you make a mistake that you can&#8217;t resolve when recording the screencast, you can start again from the recording before you paused. If you are showing off a new tool to perform a certain task, then take some time to introduce the tool and the link to download it so that you do not cause confusion. Most probably, your viewers are those who are new to computers and don&#8217;t really know the means to search for the tool you are showcasing.</p>
<p>When you feel that there is no more that you can explain to the user, end the recording by letting them know the ways that they can contact you if they need help. List your <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/twitter/">Twitter</a> username or email address.</p>
<h3>The Right Format</h3>
<p>Because the screen resolution was a very low setting, when it comes to exporting our screencast, keep the dimensions to 100%. The image below shows the settings I use for exporting my screencasts. For a short screencast I did recently, the size of the exported MOV file was 32MB and the duration of the screencast was 7 minutes 30 seconds. That works out to 4.3MB per minute which is relatively low to other compression techniques I have used in the past.</p>
<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-20561" title="Movie Settings" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Movie-Settings.jpg" alt="Movie Settings" width="295" height="350" /></p>
<p>Compressing a file can take some time, depending on how long the screencast is and its dimensions. So go and grab a cup of coffee while you wait for it to finish.</p>
<h3>The Finishing Touches</h3>
<p>When the file has been successfully encoded and compressed, I will then open it with <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/quicktime/">QuickTime Player</a> and add a logo at the beginning of the screencast as well as a link to my website so people who stumble upon my videos on video sharing websites know where they can find more of my stuff.</p>
<p>Now that you have finished all the recording, editing and exporting, it is now time to upload your screencast to <strong>as many video sharing websites</strong> as you know. I upload to many video sharing websites because different people use different services so the more video sharing websites you upload your content to, the wider the audience you will reach.</p>
<p>If you have a website, then you should also embed it there. When displaying screencasts on my website, the service that I use is <a href="http://www.blip.tv">Blip.tv</a> because the compression of your screencast when it has been uploaded is very good and hardly any quality is lost. They also have ads within the videos so you can make a little bit of money.</p>
<p>It is time to promote your newly created screencast on your website, so tweet about it and ask people to retweet. Add it to <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/stumbleupon/">StumbleUpon</a> and <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/delicious/">del.icio.us</a>, use <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-promote-your-blog-using-facebook-pages/">Facebook to promote</a> it and here are <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-free-ways-to-promote-your-website/">5 more tips on promotion</a>, hope they come in helpful. Don&#8217;t forget to add it to tutorial websites if it is relevant to them also.</p>
<p>If there is anything else that you would like to know about creating a screencast then please feel free to post a comment below and I shall reply the best I can.
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
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	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-create-share-screencasts-on-twitter-with-screenr/" title="How To Create &#038; Share Screencasts On Twitter With Screenr (October 7, 2009)">How To Create &#038; Share Screencasts On Twitter With Screenr</a> (5)</li>
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</ul>

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		<item>
		<title>Collaborate and Share Screen Sessions with up to 15 People Using Microsoft SharedView</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/collaborate-and-share-screen-sessions-with-up-to-15-people-using-microsoft-sharedview/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/collaborate-and-share-screen-sessions-with-up-to-15-people-using-microsoft-sharedview/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 13:30:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karl L. Gechlik</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collaboration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[meetings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=17351</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Microsoft is just cranking out the awesome free apps nowadays. Today I came across a GotoMeeting like program that allows up to 15 people to connect and work on a set of documents. The only catch is that the presenter or organizer needs to have a Free Microsoft Live ID. You do not have [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 5px; border-bottom: 0px" title="MSConnectHead" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/msconnecthead.png" align="left" /> Microsoft is just cranking out the awesome free apps nowadays. Today I came across a GotoMeeting like program that allows up to 15 people to connect and work on a set of documents. The only catch is that the presenter or organizer needs to have a Free Microsoft Live ID. You do not have to use it to send your meeting requests out nor do you have to force your users to sign up for a live ID.</p>
<p>Now you can collaborate across countries and time zones with ease and for free.</p>
<p>I started by browsing on over to: <a title="http://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=94" href="http://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=94">http://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=94</a></p>
<p>I downloaded and installed the 3.2MB application. Once it finished installing it prompted me to restart any and all Microsoft Office applications and Firefox… Wait… What?</p>
<p>Microsoft acknowledged that it is not the only popular browser on the market? WOW! That’s a huge step for the boys in Redmond. Before we start let’s take a look at the system requirements. That way we don’t get you all worked up over nothing <img src='http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<blockquote><p><strong>System requirements:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Ultimate, Windows XP Service Pack 2</li>
<li>700MHz CPU</li>
<li></li>
<li>Memory: Minimum 256MB of RAM (512 MB recommended)</li>
<li>Hard disk: 10MB of free hard disk space</li>
<li>Display: Minimum 800 × 600 screen resolution (1024 × 768 recommended)</li>
<li>Applications: DirectX 8.0 or higher installed on your computer</li>
<li>Internet connection: Broadband Internet access, 300 kbps minimum. Slower connections may work, but the experience may not be optimal.</li>
<li>A Windows Live ID if you want to start your own sessions (you do not need one to join someone else&#8217;s session).</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p>I did as I was told and restarted my applications. And then I fired up SharedView.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image60.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb58.png" border="0" alt="image" width="463" height="469" /></a></p>
<p>The box above was shown in my upper left hand corner of my desktop.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image61.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb59.png" border="0" alt="image" width="462" height="467" /></a></p>
<p>I signed in using my old school Hotmail account and proceeded to click on Start a new session.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image62.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb60.png" border="0" alt="image" width="462" height="465" /></a></p>
<p>It gives you the information you need to get to your participants. The users that will connect to your session will need all the above information. They do not need anything, not even a email address to connect.</p>
<p>When the users click on the link they will see this:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image63.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb61.png" border="0" alt="image" width="595" height="285" /></a></p>
<p>They need to click install and run the attachment like so:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image64.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb62.png" border="0" alt="image" width="406" height="269" /></a></p>
<p>They run through a brief installation and then you will see the attendee arrive and then they will be displayed in your participant count at the top of your screen.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image65.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb63.png" border="0" alt="image" width="423" height="190" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image66.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb64.png" border="0" alt="image" width="545" height="33" /></a></p>
<p>Hit the share button and define what you want the participant to see:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image67.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb65.png" border="0" alt="image" width="385" height="659" /></a></p>
<p>The application does not have many options but here they are:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image68.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb66.png" border="0" alt="image" width="458" height="396" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image69.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb67.png" border="0" alt="image" width="463" height="399" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image70.png"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="image" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/image-thumb68.png" border="0" alt="image" width="463" height="399" /></a></p>
<p>To see Microsoft’s real world example you can click on <a href="http://www.connect.microsoft.com/content/content.aspx?ContentID=6455&amp;SiteID=94">over to here.</a></p>
<p>All in all this is a great free application that you may find very useful in your daily activities. Do you love another similar application? What are you waiting for – share it with us in the comments.
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
	<ul class="st-related-posts">
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/when-is-good-easily-schedule-your-meetings-with-co-workers/" title="When Is Good &#8211; Easily Schedule Your Meetings With Co-Workers (October 23, 2009)">When Is Good &#8211; Easily Schedule Your Meetings With Co-Workers</a> (6)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/beam-your-screen-with-others-using-mikogo-windows-mac/" title="Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo (March 13, 2009)">Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo</a> (19)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/send-track-group-messages-and-conduct-polls-with-notifu/" title="Send &#038; Track Group Messages &#038; Conduct Polls With Notifu (November 4, 2008)">Send &#038; Track Group Messages &#038; Conduct Polls With Notifu</a> (4)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/" title="7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free) (September 13, 2007)">7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free)</a> (45)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-picks-coolest-brainstorming-applications/" title="6 Excellent Brainstorming and Mindmapping Sites (June 14, 2007)">6 Excellent Brainstorming and Mindmapping Sites</a> (27)</li>
</ul>

]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/beam-your-screen-with-others-using-mikogo-windows-mac/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/beam-your-screen-with-others-using-mikogo-windows-mac/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 19:01:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karl L. Gechlik</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[How-To]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collaboration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skype]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=13989</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Do you find yourself using GoToMeeting or some other similar screen sharing application? Do you hate its corporate feel? Do you want something a little friendlier for your meeting?
How about a full blown free screen sharing application that includes file transfer and remote control?
This is cross platform and works on Windows and Macs. The [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="margin-right:20px" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo_head.gif" border="0" alt="share screen windows mac" vspace="10" align="left" /> Do you find yourself using <a href="http://www.gotomeeting.com">GoToMeeting</a> or some other similar <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/">screen sharing application</a>? Do you hate its corporate feel? Do you want something a little friendlier for your meeting?</p>
<p>How about a full blown free screen sharing application that includes file transfer and remote control?</p>
<p>This is cross platform and works on Windows and Macs. The presenter simply downloads the <a href="http://mikogo.com/download/Mikogo-Starter.exe">1.3MB Windows installer file</a> and runs it on the machine that they want to share.</p>
<p>(You can also grab Mikogo&#8217;s <a href="http://mikogo.com/download/Mikogo.dmg">Mac installer here</a>).</p>
<p>You do need to sign up for a free account as well – but the person you are sharing your screen with does not.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-signup-thumb1.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo- share screen session" /></p>
<p>You can download the application first or set up your account first – it does not matter. Either which way after you have an account password (it will be emailed to you) and the program running in your system tray you can go ahead and click on &#8217;settings&#8217;.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-startmeeting-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="share screen mac" /></p>
<p>There are 4 basic pages to Mikogo’s settings. The only thing you REALLY need to fill out is the user name, password and your display name in the first page as seen below.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-settings1-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_Settings1" /></p>
<p>The second page is how you can define what is shared. If you want to share everything you do not have to worry about these options. If you want any applications opened after the connection not to be shared simply un-check the box at the top to &#8216;Show new applications&#8217;.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-settings2-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_settings2" /></p>
<p>The third page is self explanatory and just has settings for what is displayed if you pause the meeting and a storage path to record your meeting. There is also a box to apply a password to your meeting.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-settings3-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_settings3" /></p>
<p>The last settings page allows you to setup your proxy or connection. If you have a normal setup you can safely bypass these settings.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-settings4-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_settings4" /></p>
<p>When you are done with your settings you can choose &#8217;start a meeting&#8217; from your system tray. You will see the following screen and then the confirmation that the meeting has started.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-startingmeeting-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_startingmeeting" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-meetingstarted-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_meetingstarted" /></p>
<p>You will then be given your meeting ID number and basic information on how to get your participants to connect to your session.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-meetinginfo-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_meetinginfo" /></p>
<p>Then you instruct your user to go to the Mikogo website and click &#8216;Join a meeting&#8217;. They will download a small file and then will see this screen. Have them type in your meeting ID as well as a display name for them.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-meetinglogin-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="mikogo_meetinglogin" /></p>
<p>That’s it &#8211; they now see your screen. You can also give them control of your mouse and keyboard as well as initiate a file transfer.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/mikogo-sharing-thumb.gif" border="0" alt="share screen skype" /></p>
<p>Do you have another free screen sharing tool? Is it better than Mikogo? Let us know in the comments.
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

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	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/remote-pc-assistance-with-crossloop/" title="Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop (December 4, 2007)">Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop</a> (18)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/want-webex-like-control-over-a-remote-machine-for-free/" title="Want WebEx-like Control Over A Remote Computer For Free? (November 8, 2008)">Want WebEx-like Control Over A Remote Computer For Free?</a> (21)</li>
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	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/be-a-remote-support-superhero/" title="TeamViewer &#8211; Be A Remote Support Superhero! (June 20, 2008)">TeamViewer &#8211; Be A Remote Support Superhero!</a> (37)</li>
</ul>

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		<slash:comments>11</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Extend Google Talk Into A Remote Access Tool With GBridge</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/extend-google-talk-into-a-remote-access-tool-with-gbridge/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/extend-google-talk-into-a-remote-access-tool-with-gbridge/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2009 17:01:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>T.J. Mininday</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[backup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[file sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[google talk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[synchronize]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VPN]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=11602</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As PCs continue to expand beyond just the work environment, more and more people are buying more computers for home and travel.  They have their desktop computer at home, a laptop at home, a laptop at work and maybe even a desktop at work.  Keeping all of these in sync and on the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="margin-right:20px" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/gtalklogo.png" border="0" alt="" vspace="10" align="left" />As PCs continue to expand beyond just the work environment, more and more people are buying more computers for home and travel.  They have their desktop computer at home, a laptop at home, a laptop at work and maybe even a desktop at work.  Keeping all of these in sync and on the same page is virtually impossible.</p>
<p>Many different companies have come up with many different ways for accessing each of these systems in different ways. Some of these include <a href="https://www.gotomypc.com" target="_blank">GoToMyPC</a>, <a href="https://secure.logmein.com" target="_blank">LogMeIn</a>, <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windowsXp/using/mobility/getstarted/Remoteintro.mspx" target="_blank">Windows Remote Desktop</a>, <a href="http://www.realvnc.com/" target="_blank">VNC</a> and several other <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tags/remote-access/">remote access tools</a> that we have profiled on MakeUseOf.</p>
<p>However most of these require some type of firewall configuration, or cost money or are just incredibly insecure. One virtually unknown product, <a href="http://www.gbridge.com/">GBridge</a>, provides remote access, file sharing, file syncing and backup capabilities, all only requiring <a href="https://www.google.com/accounts" target="_blank">a Google account</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.gbridge.com/">GBridge</a> uses what they call a &#8216;Revolutionary VPN Infrastructure&#8217; to extend Google&#8217;s <a href="http://www.google.com/talk/" target="_blank">GTalk</a> into a secure collaboration tool. Once the product is installed (Windows Only), it simply asks for your Google Talk account and automatically displays the rest of your GTalk friends that may or may not have the product installed. If they do have it installed, you may collaborate with them, using each of the tools I am going to describe below. This is all done with a simple install, and no firewall configuration.</p>
<h2><strong>Desktop Sharing</strong></h2>
<p>GBridge utilizes VNC to not only access your own computer, but also any of your friends or family PC&#8217;s to access them remotely and control their desktop.  Again this only requires that they have GBridge installed and that they have a Google Talk account.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/gbridge1.png" alt="gbridge vnc" /></p>
<h2><strong>SecureShare</strong></h2>
<p>The SecureShare portion of GBridge allows for quick and easy access to any files on your additional computers with extreme VPN-like security. You can then again allow only certain friends to access these shares as well. Very handy for quickly transferring files without e-mail or FTP-like transferring.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/gbridge2.png" alt="" /></p>
<h2><strong>AutoSync</strong></h2>
<p>Keep folders in synchronization across the globe. Removes the need to manually transfer and update files on a regular basis. With no size limitations, auto scheduling and even incremental transfers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/gbridge3.png" alt="sync folder with gbridge" /></p>
<h2><strong>EasyBackup</strong></h2>
<p>Set up automatic scheduled backups to local or remote locations. Gives you peace of mind having your critical data stored off site somewhere.</p>
<p>GBridge is a very slick application that is very easy to setup on any Windows 2000, XP or Vista machine and gives you all the big capabilities of the remote access tools, plus much more.</p>
<p>Do you have any similar secure solutions like GBridge?
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
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	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-set-up-an-instant-private-network-with-remobo/" title="How To Set Up An Instant Private Network With Remobo (August 16, 2008)">How To Set Up An Instant Private Network With Remobo</a> (20)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/dropbox-review-invites-and-7-questions-with-the-founder/" title="DropBox : Review, Invites, and 7 Questions with the Founder (March 17, 2008)">DropBox : Review, Invites, and 7 Questions with the Founder</a> (83)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/creating-your-own-personal-virtual-private-network-with-hamachi/" title="Creating Your Own Personal Virtual Private Network with Hamachi (July 30, 2008)">Creating Your Own Personal Virtual Private Network with Hamachi</a> (25)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/a-tryst-with-syncplicity/" title="A tryst with Syncplicity (Backup and Sync Tool) (June 10, 2008)">A tryst with Syncplicity (Backup and Sync Tool)</a> (19)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/" title="7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free) (September 13, 2007)">7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free)</a> (45)</li>
</ul>

]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/extend-google-talk-into-a-remote-access-tool-with-gbridge/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>8</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>TeamViewer &#8211; Be A Remote Support Superhero!</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/be-a-remote-support-superhero/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/be-a-remote-support-superhero/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:27:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lee Mathews</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Browser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[How-To]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mac]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Windows]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote desktop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tech support]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/?p=3042</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I love my friends, and I love helping them.  But God knows they&#8217;re not all that great with following along with my tech support advice over the phone. You know exactly what I&#8217;m talking about and it gets frustrating for you too I bet.
Well, after my last Make Use Of article, I had a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/man-yelling-into-phone.png" alt="man yelling into phone" align="left" />I love my friends, and I love helping them.  But God knows they&#8217;re not all that great with following along with my tech support advice over the phone. You know exactly what I&#8217;m talking about and it gets frustrating for you too I bet.</p>
<p>Well, after my <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/short-url-truncators">last Make Use Of article</a>, I had a brainstorm: why not use the most painless remote control and viewing application and the best URL truncator together to get rid of my support headaches? I almost started tapping my fingertips together and muttering &#8220;exxxxxcellent&#8230;&#8221; under my breath.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s a <strong>two step plan</strong>.</p>
<p><img style="max-width: 800px; float: left; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/teamviewer.png" alt="" /></p>
<p><strong>Step one</strong>: download and install <a href="http://www.teamviewer.com">TeamViewer</a> on my laptop. I browsed over, grabbed the 1.1MB setup file and had it installed in less than a minute.</p>
<p><strong>Step two</strong>: create a snurl.com address that points to the TeamViewer &#8220;customer module&#8221;. Snurl graciously shortened the URL to: <a href="http://snurl.com/2jbo8">http://snurl.com/2jbo8</a>.</p>
<p>I can&#8217;t believe I didn&#8217;t do this ages ago.</p>
<p>Why did I choose TeamViewer? There are two major reasons: portability and a zero-configuration connection. Setting up a painless remote support system is no good if it requires multiple steps for the person on the other end. My goal is this: if I can make this so easy that my wife doesn&#8217;t get irritated when I talk her through the process, I&#8217;ve achieved my goal (and I&#8217;m still married).</p>
<p>TeamViewer doesn&#8217;t require any ports being opened on a user&#8217;s router, and they don&#8217;t need to know their IP. Talk them through getting the link open in a browser and running the file, and they&#8217;re presented with this screen:</p>
<p><img style="max-width: 800px;" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/en-quicksupport.gif" alt="TeamViewer QuickSupport" /><br />
<em><small>Can it get any easier?</small></em></p>
<p>As long as you&#8217;ve got the software running on your end, all they have to do is read you the two numbers and they&#8217;re done! Type the first one in the &#8220;Create Session&#8221; box, enter the password when prompted, and the connection initiates within a few seconds. You&#8217;ve got full control of the remote PC &#8211; in about a minute, start to finish.  The connection is fully encrypted &#8220;based on RSA private-/public key exchange and RC4 session encoding,&#8221; as described on TeamViewer.com.</p>
<p><img style="max-width: 800px;" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/en-startscreen.gif" alt="" /><br />
<small><em>If you can type, you can get a TeamViewer connection running</em></small></p>
<p><img style="max-width: 800px;" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/teamviewer-remote-session.png" alt="" /><br />
<em><small>TeamViewer at work, controlling my wife&#8217;s laptop&#8230;</small></em></p>
<p>It also supports pretty much everything else you&#8217;d want a remote control app to, like session recording, file transfer, chat, scaling, multiple monitor support, and more. TeamViewer even runs on Mac. It&#8217;s totally free for non-commercial use, and that&#8217;s what I&#8217;m aiming for &#8211; all I want to do is minimize the amount of my free time the people I love consume with their PC woes!Think you have an easier method? I&#8217;d like to hear about it &#8211; really!</p>
<p><em>(By) Lee Mathews is a blogger who writes to share downloads, links, and tech advice with other slightly frustrated users at <a href="http://www.unsightful.com">Unsightful.com</a>.</em></p>
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
	<ul class="st-related-posts">
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/want-webex-like-control-over-a-remote-machine-for-free/" title="Want WebEx-like Control Over A Remote Computer For Free? (November 8, 2008)">Want WebEx-like Control Over A Remote Computer For Free?</a> (21)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/control-your-computer-from-a-distance-using-remote-access/" title="3 Tools to Control Your PC from A Distance Using Remote Access (September 22, 2008)">3 Tools to Control Your PC from A Distance Using Remote Access</a> (31)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/beam-your-screen-with-others-using-mikogo-windows-mac/" title="Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo (March 13, 2009)">Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo</a> (19)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/remote-pc-assistance-with-crossloop/" title="Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop (December 4, 2007)">Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop</a> (18)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/give-professional-remote-support-for-free/" title="PCHelpware- Lightning Fast Tool for Remote Support (Win) (September 30, 2008)">PCHelpware- Lightning Fast Tool for Remote Support (Win)</a> (14)</li>
</ul>

]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>35</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>10 Free Microsoft Apps That Don&#8217;t Suck</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-free-microsoft-apps-that-dont-suck/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-free-microsoft-apps-that-dont-suck/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Oct 2007 02:51:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Aibek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lists of tools]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Web Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Windows]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[411]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[local directory]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Microsoft]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[microsoft office]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mobile tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[office worker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[online storage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research tools]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[security]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[software pack]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[synchronize]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[windows live]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-free-microsoft-apps-that-dont-suck/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Microsoft as a company is not usually associated with cool and free products. In that sense, Google is way ahead, it has Gmail, Google Reader, Calendar, Google Docs and dozens of other useful services. Nonetheless, there are a bunch of FREE Microsoft tools that are definitely worth a look. While some of them are yet [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Microsoft as a company is not usually associated with cool and free products. In that sense, Google is way ahead, it has Gmail, Google Reader, <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/google-calendar/">Calendar</a>, <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/google-docs-spreadsheets/">Google Docs</a> and <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-google-services-that-get-no-love/">dozens of other useful services</a>. Nonetheless, there are a bunch of FREE Microsoft tools that are definitely worth a look. While some of them are yet to be released, others have been around for a a while.</p>
<p>(1) <a href="http://www.healthvault.com/">HealthVault</a><br />
<img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/healthvault.jpg" alt="HealthVault Store Medical History Online" align ="left" /> Service that many US families should find really useful. In simple terms, HealthVault is an online safebox for all your medical records. It&#8217;s not just a storage place to keep medical history but also to share records with doctors, place to where medical documents can be faxed and auto-archived, and <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/healthvault-collect-manage-share-health-records">lots more</a>.</p>
<p>(2) <a href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/officelive/fx102390721033.aspx">Windows Live (Office Suite)</a><br />
<img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/windows-office-live.gif" alt="Windows Office Live Logo" align="left" />  Long-awaited online office offering from Microsoft. I know, there are plenty of other <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/6-free-office-suites-that-are-not-microsoft/">online office suites</a>, but many of us are still hesitant when it comes to compatibility issues. What if the document won&#8217;t open? What if text styling gets messy? &#8230; Well, who if not Microsoft can guarantee 100% compatibility with Microsoft Office. Although the service is yet to go public, you can opt-in now and get notified as soon as it&#8217;s launched. (<u>Update:</u> Some people have suggested that it&#8217;s going to more like a document storage and sharing service rather than online office suite)</p>
<p>(3) <a href="http://www.tellme.com/">TellMe</a><br />
<img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/tellme-microsoft.jpg" alt="Free Directory Assisstance (US)" align="left" /> Tellme is a free alternative to costly 411 directory service. Lets you quickly obtain contact details and directions to local businesses (repair shops, pizzerias, restaurants, etc.). You can access it via toll free number, text messaging, or TellMe mobile client. Check out TellMe video demo <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/tellme/">here</a>.</p>
<p>(4) <a href="http://onecare.live.com/site/en-US/default.htm">Windows Live (Safety Scanner)</a><br />
<img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/onecare-scanner.jpg" alt="Windows Onecare Scanner" align="left" />  Online Windows health check-up and maintenance center. Includes virus scan and removal, hard drive space recovery and performance tools. The only drawback, it doesn&#8217;t work with Firefox and thus you need IE to access it.</p>
<p>(5) <a href="http://www.tafiti.com/">Tafiti</a><br />
<img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/tafiti-research.jpg" alt="Online Research Application" align="left" /> Looking for a comprehensive research tool? Check out Tafiti. It&#8217;s a single application that integrates multiple search engines, visual search, webpage sharing, and a handful of <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/tafiti/">other features</a> for online research. Tafiti will work on any browser but you do need to have Microsoft Silverlight (free).</p>
<p><strong>Software</strong> </p>
<p>(6) <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/powertoys/xppowertoys.mspx">Win XP Powertoys</a> &#8211; PowerToys is a set of tiny all-purpose apps that add to your Windows experience. Currently, the package counts 15 different programs, including &#8216;Alt+Tab&#8217; replacement, all-in-one unit converter, right click image resizer, and virtual desktop manager.</p>
<p>(7) <a href="http://www.foldershare.com/">FolderShare</a>  &#8211; Simple and memory-friendly program with a bunch of cool features. FolderShare lets you access your PC remotely, share files with others, and synchronize files across multiple computers and mobile devices. It&#8217;s a pretty useful app to have on your arsenal.</p>
<p>(8) <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sysinternals/utilities/sysinternalssuite.mspx">Sysinternals Suite</a> &#8211; Over 60 troubleshooting utilities bundled in one suite. Most of the bundled apps are rather techy and may require technical skills. Although some of the apps are 100% automated. For instance, <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/five-programs-to-defragment-your-pc/">PageDefrag</a> (excellent paging-file defragmenter) is one of such apps.</p>
<p>(9) <a href="http://www.conferencexp.net/">ConferenceXP</a> &#8211; Live screen sharing and collaboration application for groups. Highlights include local screen streaming, browser screen sharing, and live collaboration sketchboard.</p>
<p>(10) <a href="http://get.live.com/en-us/wl/all">Windows Live Pack</a> &#8211; Brings Windows Live services to your desktop. Cool part about it, you have an option to choose which services to get. Package includes, Family Safety suite, web photo gallery, online storage service, <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/i-make-use-of-microsoft-live-writer-beta/">Windows Live Writer</a> blogging tool, and some more.</p>
<p>Got another Microsoft goodie ? Let us know in comments!
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
	<ul class="st-related-posts">
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/quick-tip-how-to-password-protect-word-documents/" title="Quick Tip: How To Add Password to Word Documents (December 30, 2007)">Quick Tip: How To Add Password to Word Documents</a> (9)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/" title="7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free) (September 13, 2007)">7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free)</a> (45)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/20-apps-that-should-be-on-your-mobile/" title="20 Apps That Should Be On Your Mobile (November 1, 2007)">20 Apps That Should Be On Your Mobile</a> (11)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/15-more-things-you-can-do-with-your-phone/" title="15 FREE Useful Services To Access from your Phone (May 24, 2007)">15 FREE Useful Services To Access from your Phone</a> (9)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-sync-tools-every-office-worker-should-know-about/" title="10 Sync Tools every Office Worker Should Know About (March 2, 2008)">10 Sync Tools every Office Worker Should Know About</a> (39)</li>
</ul>

]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>7 easy Screen-Sharing and Remote-Access Tools (All Free)</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 13 Sep 2007 01:11:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Aibek</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cool Software Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lists of tools]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collaboration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mobile tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote access]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[screencast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[synchronize]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/7-easy-screen-sharing-and-remote-access-tools-all-free/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Here you go, free and easy-to-setup screen-sharing and remote-access tools. There are several ways you can benefit from these apps: (1) Remote-Control: Help out your friend or mom with PC problems remotely, (2) Screen-Sharing: Collaborate on running programs and documents with friends. (3) Remote-Access: Access your PC files from work, school, etc.
Screen-Sharing and Remote-Collaboration Apps
1. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Here you go, free and easy-to-setup screen-sharing and remote-access tools. There are several ways you can benefit from these apps: (1) Remote-Control: Help out your friend or mom with PC problems remotely, (2) Screen-Sharing: Collaborate on running programs and documents with friends. (3) Remote-Access: Access your PC files from work, school, etc.</p>
<p><strong>Screen-Sharing and Remote-Collaboration Apps</strong></p>
<p><strong>1.</strong> <a href="http://www.crossloop.com/">CrossLoop</a> &#8211; secure, easy-to-setup, screen-sharing application for your Windows desktop.</p>
<ul>
<li>Share your screen sessions with others.</li>
<li>Share/Collaborate on running programs (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc) with friends or colleagues.</li>
<li>File transfer and sharing.</li>
<li>Available in more than 20 languages.</li>
</ul>
<p>CrossLoop Video intro:</p>
<p><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8xZ4nDmTTA"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8xZ4nDmTTA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object></p>
<p><strong>2.</strong> <a href="http://www.teamviewer.com">TeamViewer</a>  &#8211; slightly more complicated than Crossloop (not for dummies) but provides more or less same capabilities. Remote desktop sharing, collaboration, file transfer, chat, etc. You (the sharer) can decide whether you want to share the desktop or just allow the file transfer. More details can be found <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/dir/teamviewer/">here</a>. </p>
<p><img src="http://makeuseof.com/dir/images/teamviewer-remote-support.jpg" alt="TeamViewer - Remote Access and Collaboration" /></p>
<p><strong>3.</strong> <a href="http://www.yuuguu.com">Yuuguu</a> &#8211; little desktop application (Mac, Windows) that lets you (a) share your screen with others, (b) collaborate on running programs with friends, and (c) access and control someone&#8217;s PC (friends, family, etc.) . Yuuguu comes with in-built chat application that allows you to store and keep history of all Yuuguu conversations online.</p>
<p><img src="http://makeuseof.com/dir/images/yuuguu-desktop-sharing.jpg" alt="YuuGuu - Remote Desktop Sharing" /></p>
<p><strong>4.</strong> <a href="http://www.unyte.net/products/unyte.php">Unyte Lyte</a> &#8211; Offers simple screen-sharing without any remote-control capability. Basically, the only thing you can do with it is to invite someone and guide them through documents, websites, etc. On the other hand, it can be integrated into your Skype client.</p>
<p><strong>To Access your PC remotely</strong></p>
<p><strong>5.</strong> <a href="http://www.soonr.com">SoonR</a> &#8211; access your PC remotely using your mobile or any other PC (work, school, etc.). Search files, view/share documents (PowerPoint, Word docs, etc.), access email clients (Outlook, Mac Mail, etc.), run your Skype client, and lots more right from your mobile or any web-enabled PC. Check it out in action in the video below:</p>
<p><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DETwd5iFzT8"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DETwd5iFzT8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object></p>
<p><strong>6.</strong> <a href="http://www.foldershare.com/">FolderShare</a> &#8211; free utility from beloved Microsoft <img src='http://www.makeuseof.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> , allows you to access your PC remotely (from work, school, etc.), share files (read/write) with others, and sync. files across multiple computers.</p>
<p><img src="http://makeuseof.com/dir/images/foldershare.jpg" alt="Foldershare: Remote Access Application" /></p>
<ul>
<li>Share files up to 2 GB in size. No restrictions on bandwidth or number of files.</li>
<li>Sync any file type: files are synced and transferred in their original format.</li>
<li>Supported Platforms: Windows and Mac.</li>
</ul>
<p><u>Note:</u> To access your PC remotely it&#8217;s required that your PC remains &#8216;ON&#8217; with remote-access program running.</p>
<p><strong>Other</strong></p>
<p><strong>7.</strong> <a href="http://svnc.sourceforge.net/">sVNC</a> &#8211; &#8220;<em>sVNC is a downloadable application that users who need support can easily install, so a Mac guru (like you!) can help them out.</em>&#8220;.   Basically, it&#8217;s a program that enables you to provide remotes users with access and control of your system.</p>
<p><img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/sVNC-remote-support.jpg" alt="sVNC - Remote Support for Mac" />
<p>Did you like the post? Please do share your thoughts in the comments section!</p>
<p><em><strong>New on MakeUseOf ?</strong> Get cheat sheets and cool PDF guides @ <a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/">www.makeuseof.com/makeuseof-downloads/</a></em></p>

	<em><h4>Related posts</h4></em>
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	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/beam-your-screen-with-others-using-mikogo-windows-mac/" title="Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo (March 13, 2009)">Share Your Screen With Others Using Mikogo</a> (19)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-free-microsoft-apps-that-dont-suck/" title="10 Free Microsoft Apps That Don&#8217;t Suck (October 29, 2007)">10 Free Microsoft Apps That Don&#8217;t Suck</a> (13)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/remote-pc-assistance-with-crossloop/" title="Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop (December 4, 2007)">Remote PC Assistance with Crossloop</a> (18)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-remotely-control-your-windows-mobile-phone-from-desktop/" title="How to Remotely Control your Windows Mobile Phone from Desktop (March 26, 2008)">How to Remotely Control your Windows Mobile Phone from Desktop</a> (14)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/extend-google-talk-into-a-remote-access-tool-with-gbridge/" title="Extend Google Talk Into A Remote Access Tool With GBridge (February 1, 2009)">Extend Google Talk Into A Remote Access Tool With GBridge</a> (10)</li>
</ul>

]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>28</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>6 Excellent Brainstorming and Mindmapping Sites</title>
		<link>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-picks-coolest-brainstorming-applications/</link>
		<comments>http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-picks-coolest-brainstorming-applications/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:17:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kaly</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Lists of tools]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Web Apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collaboration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[conferencing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[desktop sharing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drawing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mindmaps]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/top-picks-coolest-brainstorming-applications/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[From basic all-accessible (students, PR folks, etc) multi-person live brainstorming dashboards TO feature-rich, techy diagram creation tools.
Basic Mind-Mapping Tools 
(1) ImaginationCubed &#8211; awesome looking, simple to use, live brainstorming tool. Invite your partner and share single dashboard to create mind maps. Draw, add objects, type, etc.
 (click to enlarge)
Features: Demo

live collaboration
send maps by email
replay your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From basic all-accessible (students, PR folks, etc) multi-person live brainstorming dashboards TO feature-rich, techy diagram creation tools.</p>
<p><u><strong>Basic Mind-Mapping Tools </strong></u></p>
<p><strong>(1)</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.imaginationcubed.com/">ImaginationCubed</a> &#8211; awesome looking, simple to use, <em>live</em> brainstorming tool. Invite your partner and share single dashboard to create mind maps. Draw, add objects, type, etc.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t56/esengulov/imganation-cube-large.jpg"><img border="1" src="http://makeuseof.com/images/imagination-cube.jpg" /></a> (click to enlarge)</p>
<p>Features: <a target="_blank" title="web-based brainstorming tool" href="http://www.imaginationcubed.com/LaunchPage">Demo</a></p>
<ul>
<li>live collaboration</li>
<li>send maps by email</li>
<li>replay your steps</li>
<li>save/print maps</li>
<li>background grid on/off</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>(2)</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bubbl.us/">Bubbl.us</a> &#8211; lets you quickly create custom bubble mind maps and share them with colleagues for further refining.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t56/esengulov/bubblus-big.jpg"><img border="1" src="http://makeuseof.com/images/bubblus.jpg" /></a> (click to enlarge)</p>
<p>Features: <a title="online brainstorming" target="_blank" href="http://www.bubbl.us/edit.php">Demo</a></p>
<ul>
<li>create/save/print/share/collaborate on maps</li>
<li>embed maps elsewhere (blog, web profile, etc.)</li>
<li>export maps as  XML, HTML, or as image (JPEG, PNG)</li>
<li>interactive Drag&#8217;n Drop interface</li>
<li>keyboard shortcuts, mousewheel zoom</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>(3)</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://mind42.com/">Mind42</a> &#8211; cool mind mapping tool for creating highly customizable organization charts. Each chart node can be colored, converted to an image, supplemented with a custom icon, link, attachment and more.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t56/esengulov/mind42-big.jpg"><img border="1" src="http://makeuseof.com/images/mind42.jpg" /></a> (click to enlarge)</p>
<p>Features: <a target="_blank" href="http://mind42.com/portal/tour.xhtml">Demo</a></p>
<ul>
<li>sharie and collaborate on notes</li>
<li>embed maps elsewhere</li>
<li>print maps</li>
<li>integrated live chat (Google Talk)</li>
<li>keyboard shortcuts</li>
<li>Drag&#8217;n and drop interface</li>
<li>export maps (as Freemind, Mindmanager and RTF)</li>
</ul>
<p><u><strong>More Powerful Mind-Mapping</strong></u></p>
<p><strong>(4)</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mindmeister.com/">Mindmeister</a> &#8211; slightly more flexible alternative to the above mentioned mind42: more styling/formatting options, more diverse collection of embeddable icons, provides handy sidebar next to the mapping dashboard, and more.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t56/esengulov/mindmesiter-big.jpg"><img border="1" src="http://www.makeuseof.com/images/mindmeister2.jpg" /></a> (click to enlarge)</p>
<p>Features:</p>
<ul>
<li>free account is limited to 6 mind maps</li>
<li>share and collaborate on mind maps</li>
<li>print maps</li>
<li>integrated Skype conference call</li>
<li>embed maps into your blog or website</li>
<li>drag&#8217;n drop interface</li>
<li>keyboard shortcuts</li>
<li>import maps (from FreeMind and Mindjet’s MindManager) / export to an RTF or a GIF image</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>(5)</strong> <a title="web-based brainstorming/collaboration tool" target="_blank" href="http://www.mindomo.com/">Mindomo</a> &#8211; feature-rich mind mapping tool. Probably the most comprehensive one, check out screenshot and demo below.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t56/esengulov/mindomo-big.jpg"><img border="1" src="http://makeuseof.com/images/mindomo2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Features: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mindomo.com/">Demo</a></p>
<ul>
<li>free account is limited to 7 private and an unlimited number of public maps</li>
<li>share and collaborate on maps</li>
<li>keyboard shortcuts</li>
<li>drag&#8217;n drop interface</li>
<li>import MindManager and FreeMind type maps / export to maps to TXT, MMAP, RTF, PDF, JPG, GIF and PNG formats</li>
<li>print maps</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>(6)</strong> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.gliffy.com/">Gliffy</a> &#8211; extremely powerful techy-oriented diagram creation and collaboration tool, create anything from basic flow-chart diagrams to well-documented troubleshooting guides.</p>
<p><img src="http://makeuseof.com/images/gliffy2.jpg" /></p>
<p>Features: Demos <a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0UgI-FVIKo">Video</a> / <a target="_blank" href="http://www.gliffy.com/gliffy/#reg=1">Trial</a></p>
<ul>
<li>free account is limited allows you to 3 private and unlimited number of public diagrams</li>
<li>share and collaborate on mind maps</li>
<li>embed maps elsewhere (blog, wiki, etc.)</li>
<li>export mind maps as SVG (Microsoft Visio, Adobe Illustrator, and Macromedia FreeHand)</li>
<li>interactive drag&#8217;n drop interface</li>
<li>print maps</li>
<li>map edits history (instantly revert map to earlier version)</li>
<li>keyboard shortcuts</li>
</ul>
<p><font color="#ff0000">[UPDATE]</font> Awesome related links contributed by <a title="Mind Mapping" target="_blank" href="http://www.mind-mapping.org/">Vic</a></p>
<ul>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://bubble-mind.com">Bubble-Mind</a></em></li>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://kayuda.com">Kayuda</a> (concept mapping more than mindmapping)</em></li>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://mapul.com">Mapul</a></em></li>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://comapping.com">Comapping</a> (kinda rigid, forces left-to-right mapping)</em></li>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://webofweb.net">Webofweb</a>  (prob. the oldest still surviving &#8211; mayomi came first but has sunk from sight)</em></li>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://glinky.net"><em>Glinky</em></a></li>
</ul>
<p><em>And in the area of more general diagramming tools, there’s</em></p>
<ul>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://flowchart.com">FlowChart</a></em></li>
<li><em><a target="_blank" href="http://cumulatelabs.com">CumulateLabs</a> (Cumulate Draw)</em></li>
</ul>

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