Ferris Research Weblog writes:
The most important are:
* A shared file repository. Requirement. Search on top is highly desirable in most cases. There should be regular file backups, and access controls. Thumbnail images of large graphical files, such as photographs and movies, and server/desktop synchronization, may also be highly desirable. Presence information, from which various collaborative services can be launched
* The ability to share your computer screen with others. Either read-only, or allowing remote control
* Telephone. Both one-to-one, and on-demand conference calls. The more integrated with the other services, the better
* Instant messaging
* An easy-to-use database package, allowing ad hoc definition of structured databases
* A wiki. A new, immature technology that’s very useful for working on shared text documents with simple formatsOther things can be important for certain teams as well…
* Threaded discussion groups. Required for some teams, unnecessary for most
* A task manager. Required for some teams, unnecessary for most
* Group scheduling. Not usually a requirement. But it’s very helpful if you can check each other’s free-busy times. Sometimes dedicated project or team schedules are helpful
* Video pictures, notably of someone’s face. Nice to have, helps to build a team spirit. Also helps to reduce paranoia, as in when critical things are said, but the utterer’s face shows that he or she is not angry or frustrated
* A shared drawing package. Required for some teams. More use ought to be made of this fundamental capability
* Group polling
* Fax machines
