The aim is to create a new read-write environment on the desktop (thin client) built on instant outlining and weblogging for use within the organisation. This takes the idea of blogs (knowledge blogs, narratives, story-telling) to its logical conclusion in the context of the enterprise. This will be built using XML-RPC/SOAP, RSS, OPML and Jabber as the building blocks.
Instant Outlining is the first step. Outlining helps people to write hierarchically. Instant Outlining takes what they have written and enables it to be shared with others. Most of the “new users” (new to computers) need a simple read-write environment. The Outliner is a good start. It needs to be placed it in a collaborative context. This is where Jabber can come in — it plays the role of an “XML information router.” Userland’s Radio with its Outliner is a good example, but USD 40 per desktop is too expensive for the market we want to market.
Weblogs are the next step. Outliners are good for short points, and are more likely to be arranged by task/person/project. Blogs complement outliners in that they are naturally suited for longer writing and doing so chronologically (organised by time).
What we want to do is to use Instant Outlining and Weblogs to build a read-write environment which complements (or even reduces the need for) Mail and the Word Processor.
We are currently working on first putting together an Outliner under Linux, which works within a web browser. Then, extend it to become an Instant Outliner, so outlines can be shared across others in the enterprise. Later, add on the Blogging component.
Future
The Digital Dashboard can now become the platform to deliver Web Services. I can subscribe to specific services which can show up as “buddies” in my IM window, along with People and Outlines. Think of the Dashboard as a simpler version of an enterprise information portal.
