Central Desktop Hooks into Cloud Based Documents

Central Desktop, a Software-as-a-Service provider, has spruced up its collaboration software platform with the addition of Web Folders, a feature that enables users to more readily manage files and folders stored in the cloud from their desktops.

Central Desktop’s collaboration platform, sometimes said to be a poor man’s alternative to SharePoint, is targeted mainly at SMBs. Central Desktop allows users to create collaborative workspaces where they can create, preview and share common file types, contribute content to wikis, blogs and forums, manage tasks and share calendars.

Mapping Workspaces

Central Desktop Web Folders uses WebDAV technology to map Central Desktop workspaces, files and folders as if they were a directories located on the users’ hard drives. This allows users to browse and navigate through their Central Desktop files the same way they are accustomed to managing files on their hard drives. With Web Folders, users can simply move their work files from their local computer to Central Desktop’s cloud by using familiar drag-and-drop functions.

Integrated with Document Management

Web Folders is also integrated into Central Desktop’s existing document management capabilities. When a file is opened for editing via Web Folders, it is automatically marked as “checked out” in Central Desktop so that other users know that the file is currently being edited. The document is then “checked in” when it is saved or closed and the new version is sent to Central Desktop.

Central Desktop Web Folders is now available free to the company’s Enterprise Edition customers. Company Plan and Community Edition customers have access to a read-only version of Web Folders. Web Folders is compatible with any operating system including Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Mac OS X.