OpenACircle runs on the Java platform which requires a Java JRE to run . It is readily available for free at Java’s site. To my disappointment, even though this software runs on Java, it doesn’t work on Macs.  Yes you read that correctly, no Macs.

Anyway, the registration process and usage went perfectly alright with my pc loaded with Windows 7.

A quick signup brought me to this dashboard which prompts me to create my business card details and to get my contacts into this circle by email invitation.

Then it brings me to my dashboard.

A quick glance at the dashboard shows the calendar,  events, number of connections, the people currently online, number of circles.. etc and of course, a huge advertisement at the bottom right corner. Perhaps it is needed to fund their operating costs? I thought that ad was rather large and a smaller one would not be such an eyesore.

So what are the features included in OpenACircle? The name might have already gave you a hint on what it does. The publisher states that it allows people to interact with each other virtually, anywhere and of course, FREE (There is a paid plan too).

Well it does have features such as voice conferencing which allows up to 100 users at a time. Next up would be having able to share your workspace/desktop with the users you are connected with. This gives users the ease of being able to discuss on a specific matter without having to go through tedious ways.

There’s a file sharing feature implemented in OpenACircle also. Simply drag the file and share it with anyone who is in your circle. There are no limitations on the file type, so just share whatever you want in your circle.

When someone posts up a note on the circle, you’ll be immediately alerted via email and its up to you whether you want to respond to that person or not.

This online based software has pretty much everything that you need to be able to discuss and work out something with your partners. However for me currently I have yet to need such service as my basic Instant Messaging and Push Mail works perfectly alright. Nevertheless, one day if I do happen to need such service, I’ll be glad to use this software as it as almost everything (I think) that I would need.