Sharing desktops

There may be an easy way for CIOs to save money. CrossLoop, a desktop sharing software developer, announced Tuesday that it raised $3 million for its business, which markets software that lets computer users gain access to a colleague's computer. "Our focus is the individual consumer who doesn't have access to a large corporate help desk," CrossLoop CEO Lisa Alderson said. It certainly is a tool that CIOs can use at a small company. Desktop sharing software is becoming more popular with IT professionals. It is an easy way to supply technical support from remote locations, share data and collaborate with others remotely. It means you do not have to fund an IT Help desk in your office. And that surely will save you plenty of money at a time when you are trying to cut costs.

The California company has already logged more than 10 million "help minutes" by at least 300,000 users since the company launched last November. The program is gaining popularity. It's being used in more than 150 countries and is available in 21 languages. It's an idea that is so simple that you have to wonder why no one else thought about it. But it does pose the usual security traps when you open up a desktop to multiple users. That's one reason why the company has a secure, encrypted environment. Will sharing desktops work for your company? We're interested in finding out what you think, and if it is a workable deal for you.

For software technology to share desktops:
- See this Red Herring Article