wk11 Online applications and tools

Had a look at Slideshare, at first I wasn't accustomed to the lack of audio I am used to accompanying the slide images, but soon realised this mode of presentation gives its audience control on the speed of the presentation. It also made me realise this program is probably very useful in communicating the presentation to people hard of hearing.

The biggest advantage of the online applications is access to immediate discussions and input from various contributors while working online with 1 version of the document. The online applications are very useful for group projects such as the production of annual reports. The Design team would probably find Google Docs useful in the assemblage of the final publication. Each division makes its contribution online onto the one document.

In addition, because there's just one version of the online document being worked on, the amount of paper wastage can be reduced as different versions are printed out to bring to meetings for discussions. In terms of holding meeting to discuss and make changes to what was agreed, these activities are compressed into 1 time frame where these activities are carried out simultaneously. Having experienced working in a group on procedures, this is a very welcoming tool for the editor of the work group. Face to face discussions can be limited to situations where lengthy negotiations are needed.

In terms of presentation tools, it is also useful when working with outside organisations regardless of its geographical location. Think of the saving on time, the costs of travel, accommodation, and venue for meetings and conferences.

wk10 Podcasts

There is the possibility to subscribe talking book titles in podcast format from vendors and have the link posted on the State Library's website (even with RSS feed to notify clients of new titles added to the collection). This will save all the processing costs and storage space for the Disability Access Collection.

Language learning lessons can also be loaded. Heavily used materials such as the IELTs titles will no longer need to be purchased to replace missing or damaged copies. It also provide better access (with the appropriate licensing agreement set up).

All events in the form of 'in-conversation with...', lectures and presentations held in the Library can be recorded for podcasting.

Podcasts can also be used for the collecting and sharing of oral histories of the Aboriginal communities in NSW.