IT Wise Neat stuff from IT buffs

The Innovation Centre is pleased to introduce “IT Wise” – a new feature in the monthly newsletter that will help find answers to our readers’ technology or business woes.

Each month the Innovation Centre will feature advice from local experts on a topic of interest related technology and business.

Our readers are invited to share their knowledge or request information on any topic. Anonymity will be protected and interested individuals can email: swatson@ssmic.com or fax: 705-942-6169 ATTN: IT Wise. Then watch for your answers or features in the next month’s Eye on Innovation Newsletter.

Topic: Any ideas on an easy to use Project Management software package?

Many software packages today are bloated with rich features that do not get used at all. Most project managers will want to use a more simplistic approach such a custom MS Excel spreadsheet.

Until recently, I was using several options: MS Project, Outlook, and even a TXT document in Notepad. Either the software had a steep learning curve with a complex array of options or it lacked any justifiable features - until I found Basecamp from 37Signals.
Basecamp makes Project Management simple. You will not find any charts, graphs or reports. You will find Milestones, To Do Lists, Scheduling, File Sharing and Time Tracking.

Another great feature is that Basecamp is web-based. That eliminates your worries about software licensing or an IT Department. The only software you will need is a web browser with Internet access.

You can find out more about Basecamp at http://www.basecamphq.com/ and 37Signals at http://www.37signals.com/

Submitted by: Brad Madigan
Director of Web Applications
brad.madigan@dizzytree.com