So how do you move documents and files around or ask a coworker or family member to proof-read and download a item? In our lives today we all need to have a quick and easy way to share and collaborate on files. I personally use SharePoint and Google Docs for the most part, but there are other solutions out there so lets take a look at them and see who is using what and what for.

SharePoint, so if you have a extra server or desktop kicking around, and really who doesn't. SharePoint is a great tool for collaboration and sharing. You can create libraries and store documents and files, you will be able to filter the information by the metadata that you tag the items with as you upload them. And it is free.... yes free. The version of SharePoint that you could install for a Small Business, Team, Family, Church.... the list goes on is free from Microsoft; it is called Windows SharePoint Services, get it here.  

SharePoint does require some tech skills to get up and running correctly, but you are reading this blog and are a certified Geek so you should have no problems doing it, if you do run into issues I know the folks over at www.CantellayConsulting.com would love to help you out. There are also many good blog posts for the process around, just Google WSS 3.0 install.

 OOTB SharePoint Site                              Custom SharePoint Site

The other service that I am using is Google Docs. this is a quicker option than the SharePoint as it is setup and hosted for you by Google. Google docs has the friendly feel of the cloud, easy to use, fast, and not confusing for the people that you are sharing with. The show notes for this podcast are shared using Docs and it is an easy option for on-the-fly editing of shared document. If you have a gmail account than you have Google docs, if you don't then please stop reading..... we will wait..... ok good, get one? Now presto you can share documents.

Google Docs

Like I said, I have seen other options, but these are the two that I use. I would love hear what other people are using and what new options there are. Feel free to leave links in the comments below.