NetOffice is an opensource internet-enabled system for use in projects that require collaboration over the internet. Those organizations, such as consulting firms, that rely on a division between firm-side and client-side information will benefit most from use of NetOffice. The system is divided in two parts which we will call “Internal Project Site” and “Client Project Site.” The project team, excluding the client, has access to the Internal Project Site. On the Internal Project Site, users fall into several categories: Administrator, Manager, and User. Administrators can maintain both business and technical aspects of the system. Managers administrate projects: they can add and edit clients, projects, project details, calendars, and reports but cannot upgrade the system, create new or change existing system users, or access the database. Users can view most information but can only add new discussions, notes, tasks, and linked content. The Internal Project Site users also have access to the Client Project Site on the projects to which they are assigned. Client users do not have access to the Internal Project Site. When clients log in at the login page, they are directed to the Client Project Site. On this Site, they can approve or reject documents, file support requests, review tasks, or add a message to the bulletin board. Clients only have access to their own projects and cannot view or edit projects that belong to other clients. Clients also do not have access to those items that the project manager or other team member does not publish to the Client Project Site. NetOffice can be used on an intranet, an extranet, or both. This documentation will focus on the key aspects of the application – task and document management and client collaboration.
