The Critical Path

My key interest in Cloud is as a business platform. That said there there are a number of personal cloud offerings out there that are worth exploring. I looked briefly at three of them and considerd if they could replace my existing PC / Mac.

Google Docs

What is it?

Create and share .doc, docx, ppt, and xls documents in an easy to use browser window. It’s very quick to use, and completly free.

Will it replace my PC?

It could, but is missing features like the format painter which I often find myself using when collaborating on projects with conent from a number of people. However, if we used a comunal google document as a shared workspace to begin with this wouldnt be a problem (and it’s 100% cheaper than Sharepoint). If your an excel blackbelt you could find yourself frustrated, but all the basics are present and correct. I recently forgot to install Office after rebuilding my Macbook and found I lived happily in google docs for weeks.

Nivio

What is it?

It feels a bit like Citrix for the masses. A small box gets you hooked up to Nivio where you get a desktop and access to a number inclusive applications (Mozilla, Gimp, Skype, etc), 10mb of storage all for £4.66 per month. An additional £3.59 per month gets you MS Office. You could question the logic in paying for MS Office when Google Docs seem to handle most WP tasks free of charge. If you use applications like Visio is currently retailing at £149.99 on Amazon, on demand access (£4.45 per month on Nivio) becomes more appealing.

Will it replace my PC?

For home users it seems like a great idea. Forget about the hassles of security updates, patches and performance. For business users it doesnt make as much sense, certainly when you consider that software and hardware costs are generally written off againsy capital expenditure. A vist to the website warns that they are currently sold out promising shipping at end september – It just doesnt say which september! Theres also a good review in the Telegraph.

Pogo Plug

What is it?

The basic idea of the Pogo Plug is to conect your hardrive to the internet using https and get access to your documents anywhere. It’s a d.i.y. version of Mac’s MobileMe service providing you with your own cloud for just $99. It is accessable though Windows explorer or your Mac finder. Theres a good review and pictures on Cult of Mac.

Will it replace my PC?

No Chance, but if you travel, or want a central server you can use between home and the office then it’s worth a look. I have been using Apple’s MobileMe service for exactly that reason and would be lost without it.