SetupLinux

I really hate WebEx.  Maybe it’s becuase I’m a Linux user and there is no client for Linux.  But generally speaking I don’t like thick client apps that only install in Windows.  So I’ve been on the lookout for sometime for something to replace WebEx that worked on the major OS’s and didn’t need a client installed, enter BigBlueButton.

BigBlueButton was originally designed for virtual classrooms.  Here are the basic features that can all be done through it’s web interface without installing a client:

• Group Chat
• Personal Chat
• WebCam
• Conference Room (if you have speakers and mike)
• Upload and Present Office documents (Anything that can be read by OpenOffice)
• Desktop sharing

The thing I like most about this project is it’s use of other OpenSource projects.  In true OpenSource fashion they make use of existing projects and glue them together and add the web interface to give you the application.

For example, the conference room uses the Asterisk PBX.  By default the just lets you talk to each other.  But it’s very easy (if you know Asterisk) to get a VoIP number to let people call in, do call recording, etc.

I’m still playing with it to understand what I can do with it.  But already I like it better than WebEx for normal meetings.  The biggest weak spot for me is Desktop Sharing.  It works, but it’s fairly slow.

If you’ve given it a try let me know what you think.