1) Create Groove account
2) Create workspace
3) Load and share files real-time
4) Offers threaded discussions, calendar, meeting tool.
5) Administrator of workspace can add other tools.
6) Roles: Manager or Member.
Manager can invite, uninvite, add/delete tools.
7) Online chat is like instant messenger. Can plug in headphone and talk. One can talk while others type and read text if a microphone is not available. Can send private mail or chat in group.
8) Workspace and files are housed in Microsoft land on their servers. Need to be aware of this.
9) Microsoft wrote a book on Groove.
10) Groove can be purchased standalone or comes as part of Office 2007 Ultimate. Does not need Office 2007 to run.
11) Great for interoffice communication or to incorporate into your courses. Groove can also be used for online office hours if desired.
12) Manager must invite members o workspace. Can invite through Groove or email account.
13) Groove runs in background to contact other members.
14) Must save your workspace (jump drive is best). Open and browse back to workspace. Workspace must be carried with you portably if desiring to use on other computer. If using on other computers, you'll have to invite the other computers.
15) You do not want huge Groove workspaces. Keep them small.