Mindjet Catalyst

The modern distributed workforce makes it difficult to recapture the "aha!" moments that used to happen around the watercooler. Mindjet's Catalyst can bring those impromptu idea-generating meetings back with a combination of mindmapping software, collaboration tools to accommodate group interaction, and audio video conferencing through their own meeting interface.

MindManager Web, announced in November 2008, turned visual brainstorming tools into a combination wiki, messaging and document manager. Catalyst, released this past October, moved the watercooler into the digital age.

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Mindjet Catalyst

The modern distributed workforce makes it difficult to recapture the "aha!" moments that used to happen around the watercooler. Mindjet's Catalyst can bring those impromptu idea-generating meetings back with a combination of mindmapping software, collaboration tools to accommodate group interaction, and audio video conferencing through their own meeting interface.

MindManager Web, announced in November 2008, turned visual brainstorming tools into a combination wiki, messaging and document manager. Catalyst, released this past October, moved the watercooler into the digital age.

Mindmapping tools linked with an online whiteboard allow users to look at ideas and tasks in new ways. Web conferencing puts a distributed workforce around that whiteboard at the same time. Together, you get all the value of casual watercooler inspiration and whiteboard brainstorming without the hassle of travel.

Epson WorkForce 610 All-In-One Printer

This MFP (Multi-Function Printer) performs well, but also illustrates the tremendous value modern MFPs provide to small businesses today. Epson's WorkForce 610 is an ink-jet based all-in-one printer that includes an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) that moves it from good to very good. Copy or scan multiple pages with the touch of one button, then capture and file those scans with Epson software. Networking support includes wired Ethernet and wireless. Have a memory card? Plug it in and print. Need a fax? Got it.

Print speeds are fast for a workgroup inkjet and color output, especially on quality paper, looks as good as that from any competing printer. PCs and Macs are supported.

At a street price south of $150, the WorkForce 610 provides printing, copying and scanning with an automatic feed at a new low price. It would be nice if Epson supported Linux clients as well as competing HP models do, but the price and performance will make this a great choice for many small businesses and workgroups.

PBworks Project Management and Legal editions

Wikis aren't new, and neither is PBworks (PBwiki early on). But PBworks seems determined to organize collaboration around multiple verticals, and turn text into a powerful organizational tool.

By including customized templates for project managers and then lawyers (Business Edition and Legal Edition), PBworks moved the wiki from cute and friendly into mission critical. Although the basic PBworks remains free, these advanced versions charge per project manager or lawyer, but allow team members to access information without charge. Managing a new product catalog? Invite the photographer, copy writer, and your boss to read and store documents, files, photos, and comments to the wiki you manage and control.

People think in words, not database records. PBworks organizes words, freeform text, documents, and Web links into an easy to use, searchable repository. Who needs SQL queries when you have search across all your notes and documents? Nobody, when using PBworks.

Gaskin writes books (16 so far), articles and jokes about technology and real life from his home office in the Dallas area. He can be reached at readers@gaskin.com.

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