Collaborative and Distance Communication Platform

When considering collaborative communication, our minds often turn to platforms such as Second Life or Wikipedia. Perhaps in your mind these sites are associated with a some-what negative connotation. However, it is important to note, that not all collaborative means of communication are created equal. Each serves a unique purpose.

While researching this particular topic, I came across a platform that may appeal to individuals in a variety of situations. I found this to be most specifically created for a professional market, however I feel that it would beneficial for families, communities, and businesses alike.

Basecamp is a product management software that is designed to be simple and easy to understand. It was created in 2003 by an organization by the name of 37signals. As a web design firm, they were frustrated when details would fall through the cracks and projects would be hindered due to poor communication. Not able to find the right project management tool, they decided to create their own. The tool that was created, Basecamp, was formally put on the market on February 5, 2004.

Don't let the humble beginnings of Basecamp fool you. By March 2004, there were a hundred paying customers. Today, after ten years, nearly 15,000,000 people have used Basecamp while working on a project. In fact, last year alone, this platform helped over 285,000 businesses complete more than 2,000,000 projects. The image below highlights just a few of the well-known organizations that have used this collaboration platform as an important tool in their businesses.

Through Basecamp, organizations are able to share large files, track project assignments, conduct brainstorming ideas, and much more. After inviting members to the group and outlining the project goals, the sky is the limit. Perhaps one of the easiest ways to understand Basecamp is to see an example from KEEN Footwear. The organization used Basecamp to coordinate their efforts in building their flagship store in Portland, Oregon. 

The image below is a screenshot from the KEEN project. As you can see, there is place for discussion, both on dedicated discussion boards, but also on individual items within a To-Do list. On the bottom of the image, large files can also be viewed. 

For a more complete view of KEEN's project details, click the link HERE. 

The following Basecamp tutorial video may also be helpful in understanding how to use this platform:

Visit these sources to learn more about Basecamp:

37signals.com

Basecamp: Project Management and Collaboration Software

reorg

How Does Basecamp Work?