I am giving Google Notebook a run. I really like the idea of having my notes in a SaaS environment so I can access and share my notes with colleagues and clients. If you are interested in this area also try Backpack by 37signals
What it Does
Grab images and text from websites using a “Clip” button. Write your own notes. Invite collaborators and publish your notes to the web.
Good Points
- Simple interface, that feels like Gmail & Google Reader.
- Tab based and widget based use. Bottom-Right Browser Widget View - Click Open_Notebook link in your browser footer to access it. Maximised Tab in Browser View.
- Highlight and Clip is very easy to use.
- Searchable content.
- Access via Google sign in.
- 30 second install (Firefox or IE extension).
- Terms and Conditions leave the content IP rights with the subscriber.
Google claims no ownership or control over any Content submitted, posted or displayed by you on or through Google services. You or a third party licensor, as appropriate, retain all patent, trademark and copyright to any Content you submit, post or display on or through Google services…
Improvable
- No Labels or Tags (slight negative). I’ll assume Google will bring that in later.
- You can’t seem to set or control a title for a Note (usability issue). It likes to create a header/title line by collapsing content into one line (ignoring carriage returns) as a pseudo title.
- I’d prefer section headers and the notes content to open using a link or clickable header instead of the plus expander. That’s a bit old hat.
Simple and effective SaaS utility.
I agree with you that google is fantastic, but it takes a massive amount of resources and SLOOOOWS your computer down to walking pace. Also, I think a lot more people need to be using google desktop to get the best use out of it for clients etc. Google is doing a fantastic job, but its the developer installed base who persist with microsoft products which is cramping google style in my opinion.
Comment by tim lee — November 5, 2007 @ 7:13 am
I was at a BBQ and I asked a few of my friends if they new of Google Apps, Google Docs and not a single yes. Most new Gmail though. So i’m thinking its still very geek. Thus you and I know of it but mainstream is still miles away I’m thinking. A cultural chasm maybe?
Comment by Marc — November 6, 2007 @ 8:29 am