Group Work

It is likely that you will be required to do group work while at GSLIS, as well as out in the professional world.  Here are some suggestions for working collaboratively online.

File Storage

While at UIUC, you have file storage space provided to you by both GSLIS and CITES, the larger computing body on campus.  We recommend using the file sharing options available to you through CITES.  The service is very robust and fairly simple to use - please note that while the GSLIS help desk may be able to answer some basic questions you might have regarding NetFiles, more thorough support may be found at the CITES HelpDesk.

In order to use NetFiles, the CITES file storage service, you must first set up your Active Directory password.  Directions for getting started are available here:
http://www.cites.illinois.edu/netfiles/quickstart.html

Once you've set up that account, you can sign in to NetFiles using your web browser.  Additional documentation on basic NetFiles use is available here:
http://www.cites.illinois.edu/netfiles/web.html

NetFiles provides you with a few options for collaborative work.

• First, you can set up public directories, which allow anyone in the world to view or download your files.
• You can also set up selective permissions on individual files.  In order to give shared permissions to your group members, they will also need to have NetFiles accounts.
• In addition, you can set up groups, which will allow you give permission to a file or folder en masse.
• If you're collaborating with non-UIUC folks, you can set up guest tickets to allow access for people without NetFiles accounts.
  
• Once you're done editing, you can also lock a file to prevent further changes.

Your NetFiles account will expire three months after you leave UIUC, so please plan to download your files or move them to a different file storage space before your account expires.

Other Options

Confluence Wiki

Confluence is an open source commercial wiki package supported by GSLIS. Confluence spaces are created by request and may be created for individuals or working groups. To request a Confluence space, please email help@support.lis.illinois.edu

Google Docs

If you wish to collaboratively author a document online, Google Docs may be an option for your group.  You can use Google Docs to edit existing files, create new files, and publish your documents online.  Support information is available here: here.

Live Session Chat

If you are collaborating with others at GSLIS and need to chat, you can use the Online Auditorium (requires GSLIS domain login), which is generally open around the clock except during training sessions and other special broadcasts.  If you are taking a LEEP class, you can also use your class's live session space outside of class time.

Segue

Applied Technologies for Learning in the Arts & Sciences (ATLAS) provides Segue as a campus-wide service. You will need your NetID and Active Directory Password to access your account. Support for Segue can be found here.

(Other) Wiki Software

If you have your own server space, you could install and use wiki software to allow for ongoing editing.  Different wiki packages have different options, so make sure you choose the one most appropriate to your needs.  WikiMatrix provides a fairly comprehensive comparison of wikis.  In addition, many webhosts provide easy installations of certain wiki packages, so make sure to ask your hosting company about these options.

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