This weeks testing of Inbit went well. Users liked the idea of IM and it was put to good use. That is until the 16th user was restricted. Inbit is not bad at all and at $180 fairly priced but a little more than, Spark.
Spark is an Open Source, cross-platform IM client, with Openfire the cross-platform real-time collaboration server based on the XMPP (Jabber) protocol – the same stuff that powers Gtalk (I believe). ‘Combined with the Openfire server, Spark is the easiest and best alternative to using un-secure public IM networks.’ Next we week will either confirm or refute that. After the success of Inbit with just a few key personal, tells me that IM will work for schools. The more staff on board, the more powerful influential it could be.
what kind of testing are you talking about? enlighten us
Once we have established its suitable for our network then its all about usability and how it works for our staff.
Test 1 – The UI. This we test with our office staff. Interesting for some of our staff, Inbut was their first ever experience of IM.
Test 2 – As our staff use their school laptops to register / lessons. Does the product interfer with lesson deliver and is it sufficiently private.
Test 3 – is information recorded? Our staff accountable for communication in their forum.
Test 4 – What are the unforeseen benefits / drawbacks and do the benefits outweight the training needs of the staff. (Training is requires even for simple solutions such as these).
Any other idea are welcome Logicmantra. Do you currently use / contribute to Spark? We would welcome your comments.