Collaborative software allows people from around the world to meet in a virtual classroom and interact in real-time. Common features of collaborative software include voice-over-internet protocol (also referred to as voice-over IP or VoIP), instant messaging, interactive whiteboard, polling/quizzing, application/desktop sharing, web touring, file sharing, video conferencing, and session archiving. Collaborative software users employ this technology for live instruction, training events, meetings, office hours, orientations, web conferences, recruiting sessions, etc.

In March of 2006, a Collaborative Software Committee first convened in order to find a collaborative software solution for the University of Florida that would (1) meet the teaching and learning needs of various departments, (2) integrate with existing educational technologies on campus, and (3) provide a cost effective means for connecting students globally. The committee considered hundreds of criteria while evaluating various collaborative software products and ultimately chose Elluminate. See their website at http://www.elluminate.com

AT's Software Licensing Services is initiating a contract with Elluminate and UF. Colleges/departments can join the license on the basis of an FTE count.

Information will be posted in June under Licensing Quick Links at the Software Licensing Services web site: http://www.software.ufl.edu.