[Comswg] Document Repository - Please Review

[Shay Seager]

Hello OpenSFS Members,

The Communication working group reviewed many document storage applications over the past week to decide what was the best venue to securely store and work on internal documents.  After comparing many choices we think that Google Docs will be our best option.  We reviewed the concerned voiced in the past about using Google docs and I have our responses listed:
1-You need a google account.  With any repository application you will need an account to access the files.  With Google docs individuals were afraid that if they didn't have a google email address they would not be able to access the documents and internally keeping track of double e-mail addresses for everyone would be a hassle.  However, we found out that you can and will need to create a google account with your corporate e-mail address.  Creating an account with your corporate email will allow us to verify your membership within OpenSFS and the process of creating an account will mirror that of any of the repository options.
2- Security.  We found that Google docs offers the same security options as it's more expensive competitors (ie. Zoho), where documents can be shared by the creator and only seen by the individuals which the creator shared the document with.
3 - Google Docs is not blocked by any members sites as far as we know.
4- Trackable changes.  Google Docs will show you who is viewing a document when you are viewing it and will track changes within a document.
5- Price.  Google Docs was the only free venue that met all of our needs.  Using a free account for document storage allows more of OpenSFS's funds to go back into OpenSFS Lustre Projects.  The price range for other repositories started at $1000/year-$2000/year.

We are looking for member feedback on the decision and storage options.  Please e-mail me with any comments/questions/concerns.  We will implement a document repository system by February 23rd, without feedback we will move ahead with Google Documents.

Warmest Regards,
Shay Seager and the Communication Working Group


- - - 
Shay Seager
Open SFS Secretary 
www.opensfs.org
(925) 290-7641
shay at opensfs.org