BSCW Classic
by Fraunhofer FIT and OrbiTeam Software
by Fraunhofer FIT and OrbiTeam Software
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
We help make selecting a software for your business effortless, economical and efficient.
by Fraunhofer FIT and OrbiTeam Software
by Fraunhofer FIT and OrbiTeam Software
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
The implementation process for BSCW Classic software typically begins with a thorough needs assessment to understand the specific requirements of the organization. This involves consultations with key stakeholders to identify the primary objectives and desired outcomes of using the software. Following this, a detailed project plan is developed, outlining the steps and timeline for the implementation. This plan includes milestones for configuration, customization, data migration, and user training.
Once the project plan is approved, the next phase involves the installation and configuration of the BSCW Classic software. This step includes setting up the server environment, configuring user roles and permissions, and integrating the software with existing systems. The configuration process is crucial as it ensures that the software aligns with the organization's workflows and processes. This phase can take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the organization's requirements.
Data migration is another critical step in the implementation process. This involves transferring existing data from legacy systems to the BSCW Classic platform. The data migration process is meticulously planned and executed to ensure data integrity and minimize downtime. This phase may also include data cleansing and validation to ensure that the migrated data is accurate and up-to-date. Depending on the volume and complexity of the data, this phase can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
The final phase of the implementation process is user training and go-live. BSCW Classic offers comprehensive training programs to ensure that users are comfortable and proficient with the new system. This includes hands-on training sessions, user manuals, and online resources. Once the users are trained, the system is officially launched, and the organization begins using BSCW Classic for their daily operations. Post-implementation support is also provided to address any issues that may arise during the initial usage period.
BSCW Classic is designed to be highly customizable to fit the specific needs of different businesses. The software offers over 500 functions that can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of various industries and organizational structures. This flexibility allows businesses to create custom workflows, define specific project phases, and set up unique document management processes that align with their operational needs.
One of the key customization features of BSCW Classic is its ability to create and manage document templates. Businesses can design templates that adhere to their branding and compliance requirements, ensuring consistency across all documents. Additionally, the software supports the creation of custom forms and reports, enabling organizations to capture and analyze data in a way that is most relevant to their operations.
The software also allows for the customization of user roles and permissions. This ensures that employees have access to the information and tools they need while maintaining strict control over sensitive data. Businesses can define specific access levels for different user groups, ensuring that only authorized personnel can view or edit certain documents. This level of customization helps organizations maintain security and compliance while optimizing their workflows.
Furthermore, BSCW Classic supports integration with other business systems, such as CRM, ERP, and HRM platforms. This integration capability allows businesses to streamline their operations by connecting BSCW Classic with their existing software ecosystem. Custom APIs and connectors can be developed to facilitate seamless data exchange between systems, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
The cost structure for BSCW Classic includes several components, such as setup fees, maintenance charges, and support costs. The initial setup fee covers the installation and configuration of the software, as well as any customization required to tailor the system to the organization's needs. This fee can vary depending on the complexity of the implementation and the level of customization required.
Maintenance charges are typically recurring fees that cover the ongoing upkeep of the software. This includes regular updates, bug fixes, and performance enhancements to ensure that the system remains secure and efficient. Maintenance fees are usually calculated as a percentage of the software license cost and are billed annually. These fees ensure that the software remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Support charges are another important cost component. BSCW Classic offers various support plans, ranging from basic to premium, depending on the level of assistance required by the organization. Basic support plans typically include access to online resources, such as user manuals and FAQs, as well as email support. Premium support plans offer additional services, such as 24/7 phone support, dedicated account managers, and priority response times. The cost of support plans varies based on the level of service and the size of the organization.
In addition to these standard costs, there may be additional charges for advanced customization, integration with other systems, and training programs. Organizations should budget for these potential expenses when planning their implementation. It is advisable to discuss all cost components with the BSCW Classic sales team to get a comprehensive understanding of the total investment required.
BSCW Classic offers a comprehensive training and support program to ensure that new users can effectively utilize the software. The training program includes a variety of resources, such as hands-on training sessions, online tutorials, and detailed user manuals. These resources are designed to cater to different learning styles and ensure that all users can quickly become proficient with the system.
Hands-on training sessions are typically conducted by experienced trainers who guide users through the various features and functionalities of BSCW Classic. These sessions can be conducted on-site or virtually, depending on the organization's preference. The training covers essential topics such as document management, workflow creation, and project coordination, ensuring that users have a solid understanding of how to use the software effectively.
Online tutorials and user manuals are also available to provide ongoing support to users. These resources offer step-by-step instructions on how to perform various tasks within the software, making it easy for users to find answers to their questions. The online tutorials are particularly useful for new users who prefer to learn at their own pace, as they can access the tutorials anytime and from anywhere.
In addition to training, BSCW Classic offers robust support services to assist users with any issues they may encounter. The support team is available via email, phone, and online chat, providing timely assistance to resolve any technical problems. For organizations that require more personalized support, BSCW Classic offers premium support plans that include dedicated account managers and priority response times.
Overall, the training and support program provided by BSCW Classic ensures that users have the knowledge and resources they need to effectively use the software. This comprehensive approach helps organizations maximize the benefits of BSCW Classic and achieve their business objectives.
BSCW Classic implements a range of security measures to protect data and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. One of the primary security features is the robust access control system, which allows organizations to define user roles and permissions. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
The software also includes advanced encryption protocols to protect data both in transit and at rest. Data transmitted between the user's device and the server is encrypted using industry-standard SSL/TLS protocols, ensuring that it cannot be intercepted by malicious actors. Additionally, data stored on the server is encrypted using strong encryption algorithms, providing an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments are conducted to identify and address potential security risks. These assessments help ensure that the software remains secure and compliant with industry standards and regulations. Any identified vulnerabilities are promptly addressed through security patches and updates, minimizing the risk of exploitation.
BSCW Classic also offers comprehensive backup and disaster recovery solutions to protect data in the event of a system failure or data loss. Regular backups are performed to ensure that data can be quickly restored in case of an emergency. The disaster recovery plan includes procedures for data restoration and system recovery, ensuring that organizations can resume their operations with minimal disruption.
Overall, the security measures implemented by BSCW Classic provide a robust framework for protecting data and ensuring the safe and secure use of the software. These measures help organizations maintain compliance with data protection regulations and safeguard their sensitive information from potential threats.
BSCW Classic, a versatile groupware system, regularly releases updates to enhance its functionality and address any issues. The updates are managed by OrbiTeam Software GmbH & Co. KG in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology (FIT). Users can stay informed about new releases and updates by subscribing to the BSCW newsletter, which provides frequent updates about the software. Additionally, the BSCW website offers detailed information about the latest versions, including areas of application and licensing issues.
The update process for BSCW Classic involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition. When upgrading from older versions, such as BSCW 3.4.1 or lower, users must adapt their configurations to the new document tree layout and access control model introduced in version 4.0. This process includes resetting special access control settings to default values and manually editing the upgraded server instance configuration file. The upgrade also installs a new evaluation license valid for 90 days and 200 users, which may require users to upgrade their licenses promptly if they have more than 199 registered users.
BSCW Classic also provides comprehensive documentation to assist users with the update process. The administrator and user documentation is regularly updated to reflect changes and new features. This includes English translations of the data protection declaration template, updated GDPR DPD templates, and corrected required packages for different operating systems. The documentation ensures that users have access to the necessary information to manage updates effectively.
To facilitate the update process, BSCW Classic offers support through various channels. Users can access FAQs, online help, and manuals on the BSCW website. Additionally, technical support is available via email for development and technical issues. This support infrastructure helps users navigate the complexities of updating their BSCW Classic installations and ensures that they can take full advantage of the latest features and improvements.
BSCW Classic has a clear policy on data ownership and portability, ensuring that users retain control over their data. According to the data privacy information provided by OrbiTeam, the company responsible for BSCW, users have the right to access, correct, and delete their personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This policy ensures that users can manage their data as needed and maintain control over their information.
Data ownership is a critical aspect of BSCW Classic's policy. Users are considered the owners of the data they upload and manage within the BSCW system. This ownership extends to all types of data, including documents, messages, and other collaborative content. The system's design supports this ownership by providing features such as version control, access rights management, and document release processes, which allow users to control how their data is accessed and used.
Portability is another key element of BSCW Classic's data policy. Users can export their data from the system, ensuring that they can transfer their information to other platforms if needed. This is facilitated by the system's support for standard data formats and protocols, such as WebDAV and LDAP, which enable seamless data transfer and integration with other systems. Additionally, BSCW Classic's compliance with GDPR ensures that data portability rights are upheld, allowing users to move their data without unnecessary restrictions.
To further support data ownership and portability, BSCW Classic provides robust security measures to protect user data. The system employs transport layer security (TLS) with 256-bit encryption to safeguard data during transmission. Additionally, technical and organizational measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access, manipulation, or loss of data. These security measures ensure that users can confidently manage and transfer their data within the BSCW Classic environment.
BSCW Classic offers flexible terms for scaling up or down to accommodate changing organizational needs. The system's architecture supports both vertical and horizontal scaling, allowing organizations to adjust their resources based on their specific requirements. Vertical scaling, or scaling up, involves adding more resources to a single node, such as increasing CPU, memory, or storage capacity. This approach is useful for handling performance issues and accommodating spikes in workload demands.
Horizontal scaling, or scaling out, involves adding more nodes to the system, such as additional servers or virtual machines. This method is particularly effective for distributed applications and large-scale collaborative environments, as it allows the system to handle increased workloads by distributing tasks across multiple nodes. BSCW Classic's design supports both scaling methods, providing organizations with the flexibility to choose the most appropriate approach based on their needs.
The scalability of BSCW Classic is further enhanced by its support for various dimensions of scalability, including load scalability, functional scalability, and geographic scalability. Load scalability allows the system to expand and contract to accommodate varying workloads, ensuring that performance remains consistent even during peak usage periods. Functional scalability enables the addition of new features and capabilities without disrupting existing activities, while geographic scalability ensures that the system can maintain effectiveness as it expands to cover larger regions.
To facilitate scaling, BSCW Classic provides tools and features that support efficient resource management. For example, the system includes task management, scheduling, and effort estimation tools that help organizations plan and allocate resources effectively. Additionally, the system's support for real-time communication, document synchronization, and collaborative editing ensures that users can work efficiently regardless of the system's scale. These features make it easier for organizations to scale their BSCW Classic installations as their needs evolve.
The terms and conditions for contract renewal and cancellation for BSCW Classic are designed to provide flexibility and clarity for users. BSCW Classic licenses are distributed by OrbiTeam Software GmbH & Co. KG, and the terms of use are outlined in the licensing agreements provided by the company. Users can download the BSCW server software and use it free of charge within an evaluation period of 90 days. After this period, a license is required for continued use.
Contract renewal for BSCW Classic typically involves renewing the software license. Users can obtain licenses for different durations, depending on their needs. Public schools and universities may obtain a free license for educational purposes, while other organizations must purchase licenses based on their usage requirements. The renewal process is straightforward, and users are encouraged to renew their licenses promptly to avoid any disruption in service.
Cancellation of a BSCW Classic contract can be initiated by contacting OrbiTeam Software GmbH & Co. KG. Users have the right to terminate their contracts if they no longer wish to use the software. Upon cancellation, users must ensure that they comply with any data retention and deletion policies outlined in the licensing agreement. This includes securely deleting any data stored on the BSCW server and ensuring that no unauthorized access to the system occurs after cancellation.
The terms and conditions for contract renewal and cancellation also include provisions for support and maintenance. Users with active licenses are entitled to technical support and updates, ensuring that they can continue to use the software effectively. OrbiTeam provides various support channels, including email support and online documentation, to assist users with any issues they may encounter. These support services are an essential part of the licensing agreement, helping users maintain their BSCW Classic installations and address any challenges that arise.
BSCW Classic meets several compliance standards to ensure that it adheres to legal and regulatory requirements. One of the primary standards is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which governs data protection and privacy in the European Union. BSCW Classic is designed to be GDPR-compliant, ensuring that users' personal data is processed lawfully, transparently, and securely. This includes providing users with the right to access, correct, and delete their data, as well as ensuring data portability and the right to object to data processing.
In addition to GDPR compliance, BSCW Classic also adheres to the Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV 2.0), which ensures accessibility for users with disabilities. The system's user interface is designed to be barrier-free, providing equal access to all users regardless of their abilities. This compliance with BITV 2.0 demonstrates BSCW Classic's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, making it a suitable choice for organizations that prioritize these values.
BSCW Classic also meets various security standards to protect user data. The system employs transport layer security (TLS) with 256-bit encryption to safeguard data during transmission. Additionally, technical and organizational measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access, manipulation, or loss of data. These security measures are regularly updated to keep pace with the latest developments in technology, ensuring that BSCW Classic remains a secure platform for collaborative work.
Furthermore, BSCW Classic's compliance with data protection and security standards is supported by comprehensive documentation and support services. The system's documentation includes detailed information on data protection policies, security measures, and compliance requirements. Users can also access technical support to address any compliance-related issues, ensuring that they can maintain adherence to relevant standards while using BSCW Classic. This robust compliance framework makes BSCW Classic a reliable and secure choice for organizations seeking a collaborative platform that meets stringent regulatory requirements.
BSCW Classic is a collaborative workspace software package developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology (FIT) and is currently maintained and distributed by OrbiTeam Software GmbH & Co. KG. The software was initially released in 1995 and has since evolved to support a wide range of collaborative and document management functions. OrbiTeam Software, founded in 1998 as a spin-off from Fraunhofer FIT, continues to provide maintenance, development, and professional support for BSCW systems worldwide. The company is headquartered in Bonn, Germany, and has a significant user base, including large European telecommunications companies, federal and state authorities, research institutes, universities, and numerous small and medium-sized enterprises.
BSCW Classic is designed to facilitate collaboration over the web, offering tools for document upload, event notification, and group management. The software can be used entirely within a web browser, making it accessible and easy to deploy. It is available both as a cloud-based service and as an on-premise solution, providing flexibility to meet the needs of different organizations. The software license is based on the number of users, which allows for scalable implementation depending on the size of the organization.
The company has been involved in various national and international research projects, leveraging its strong ties with the Fraunhofer FIT. Notable projects include MILK (Multimedia Interaction for Learning and Knowing), CoEUD, and EnArgus, which highlight BSCW's capabilities in supporting complex collaborative environments. These projects demonstrate the software's versatility and its ability to adapt to different research and development needs.
OrbiTeam Software has continuously updated BSCW Classic to incorporate new features and improvements. The software has expanded to include video calls, short messages, and project and task management in addition to its core document management capabilities. The integration of large language models (LLMs) in the form of virtual colleagues in version 7.6 is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and staying ahead of technological trends. This ongoing development ensures that BSCW Classic remains a relevant and powerful tool for collaborative work.
By Fraunhofer FIT and OrbiTeam Software