Surf's Up: From desktop to browser

I’ve noticed a change creeping in more and more, a change I said would come about quite a while ago and a change that’s been in the minds of many for quite some time now.

The idea of going from a desktop application to an online application has grown and applications are popping up around the web (literally going from desktop to browser).

But why use an online application rather than a desktop application?

• Access from anywhere
  Websites can be accessed from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection so why not an online application? The ability to view files and edit them directly online without the worry of installing an application on the desktop saves time and hassle.



• Sharing and collaborating
  This is one of the many features that is so exciting about online applications. Currently versions of documents are sent around via email for one person to read and amend, whereas online (in some applications) you can get everyone to join in from different locations to share and collaborate in real time.



• Publish and use your work
  The online versions of your work can be saved as files that are available to download and use. Some online applications allow you to easily embed your document into other online resources such as wikis, blogs and websites.



• Platform independent
  Most of the online applications are platform independent, meaning that PC and Mac users can work together. Development within the browser means that the application is platform independent and will work as long as a browser is available.



• Simple to use
  We can all use Word (Microsoft Office) and online applications are just as simple too. No expertise really needed, if you can use any desktop application then the online application is no different.



• Value for money
  Most of the online applications are available free as long as you setup an account. Upgrades are available for more advanced features in most so you can try before you buy.

Here are some interesting applications I’ve come across and used, all have their merits and all are online:


http://www.mindmeister.com/
“Brings the concept of mind mapping to the web, using its facilities for real-time collaboration to allow truly global brainstorming sessions.”
About: Mindmeister focuses on the concept of collaboration allowing users to real-time brainstorm at different locations. It also integrates with Skype calls allowing discussions and mapping at the same time. It has offline functionality as well.
Built Using: Ajax, Javascript, DHTML
Account Type: Basic (free limited account), Premium ($4+ monthly paid account)



http://www.mindomo.com/
“Create, edit mind maps, and share them with your colleagues or your friends.”
About: Mindomo has an office inspired look that makes it easy to pickup and start using. It also offers loads of customisation allowing users to change colours, fonts, icons, etc.
Built Using: Flash
Account Type: Basic (free limited account), Premium ($6+ monthly paid account)



http://www.mind42.com/
“Keep track of all your ideas, whether alone, with colleagues and friends or working together with the whole world.”
About: Mind42 focus is based around the ability to collaborate. It also has a variety of useful features which includes the ability to zoom.
Built Using: Ajax, Javascript, HTML
Account Type: Free



http://www.bubbl.us/
“A simple and free web application that lets you brainstorm online.”
About: Bubbl.us is simply brainstorming online. It also has great keyboard shortcuts making it easy to use without the use of your mouse.
Built Using: Flash
Account Type: Free



http://www.writemaps.com/
“Free web-based tool that allows you to create, edit, and share sitemaps online”
About: WriteMaps is a tool that is primarily used for creating sitemaps. It also has great keyboard shortcuts making it easy to use without the use of your mouse.
Built Using: Ajax, Javascript, HTML
Account Type: Free



http://www.gliffy.com/
“Flow charts, diagrams and floor plans are easy with Gliffy”
About: Gliffy has been noted as possibly being the ‘Visio killer’. It has a variety of diagrams you can create from flow charts to floor plans.
Built Using: Flash
Account Type: Basic (free limited account), Premium ($30+ yearly paid account)



http://www.flowchart.com/
“Flowchart.com offers you a way to create your flowchart online.”
About: Flowchart.com is currently in private beta. The demo shows a nice looking interface but we’ll have to wait and see.
Built Using: N/A currently in private beta
Account Type: N/A currently in private beta



http://www.thinkfree.com/
“Free online alternative to Microsoft Office”
About: Think Free is an online alternative to Microsoft Office. It has some nice features and looks rather nice too.
Built Using: Java, Ajax, HTML
Account Type: Basic (free limited account), Premium (free during beta)



http://docs.google.com/
“Create and share your work online”
About: Google Docs is obviously created by Google (who else). It has features similar to some Microsoft Office applications.
Built Using: Javascript, Ajax, HTML
Account Type: Free



http://www.zoho.com/
“Office productivity suite”
About: Zoho has a vast variety of tools. Zoho has a nice interface making it easy to use and a variety of features available online. It has offline functionality as well.
Built Using: Javascript, Ajax, HTML
Account Type: Free, Paid (contact zoho for pricing)



http://www.picnik.com/
“Make your photos fabulous with easy to use yet powerful editing tools.”
About: Picnik is a great for image manipulation. It has a variety of options to help you edit your pictures.
Built Using: Flash
Account Type: Basic (free limited account), Premium ($24.95+ yearly paid account)



http://www.onlinephototool.com/
“You can edit and save your images, screenshots and photos online.”
About: Online photo tool does exactly what it says. It has a variety of options to help you edit your pictures.
Built Using: Java
Account Type: Free


I hope you've enjoyed looking through these great sites. Look out for future Surf's Up features where I'll be looking at the internet and what it has to offer. If you want to keep track of sites I find follow me on twitter @kunji.

Kunji