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Tag: tool

  • What is the top video conferencing tool: Google Meet or Zoom?

    What is the top video conferencing tool: Google Meet or Zoom?

    Video conferencing tools such as Google Meet and Zoom are crucial for organizations due to the widespread adoption of remote work globally.

    These applications enable us to collaborate virtually with our coworkers, as long as we have a stable internet connection and a laptop or smartphone.

    Google Meet and Zoom are among the most popular video conferencing tools and are frequently compared to determine the best option for users.

    If you are having trouble choosing between the two options, take a look at our article!

    What does Google Meet entail?

    Google Meet is the video conferencing application within Google Workspace, formerly referred to as G Suite.

    People still mention their former names, Google Hangouts or just “Hangout”.

    Although it is a component of the Google business suite, this tool can also be purchased individually.

    During the 2020 pandemic, Google Meet gained 3 million new daily users.

    More information on Zoom

    Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing tool primarily utilized for virtual meetings and webinars.

    This tool provides chat, meeting rooms, a telephone system, and connections with external tools.

    Differences between Google Meet and Zoom.

    Google Meet and Zoom are two video conferencing platforms utilized by remote workers, as well as educators and learners.

    Both enable video connection, enabling users to display their screen on different types of devices.

    Therefore, both provide nearly identical features.

    What are the key distinctions?

    Google Meet Zoom
    Is there a free version available? Yes (Meetings up to 1 hour) Yes (Meetings up to 40 minutes)
    Monthly Cost Starting from $8 per user Plans from $14.99 USD/US
    Participant Limit Up to 150 on Google Workspace Essentials Up to 100 in the Professional Plan
    Call Duration Up to 24 hours Up to 30 minutes
    Supported Platforms Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

    Google Meet and Zoom offer various subscription plans at different monthly prices, each including exclusive features accessible upon selecting specific packages.

    You can view Zoom’s complete pricing options on the official website, with prices listed in US dollars.

    Google promotes the use of the Google Workspace package, which includes various useful applications for remote work and learning, such as Google Meet.

    Which tool offers superior features: Google Meet or Zoom?

    We compare the two video conferencing tools based on key factors important for users in work and educational settings.

    Efficiency

    Google Meet is more practical than Zoom because it does not require any browser extensions, just a Gmail account.

    Meet is integrated into the Google Calendar agenda as it is one of the tools available in Google Workspace.

    You can schedule appointments and connect with attendees using this method.

    Integrations combining different elements.

    Google Meet is fully connected with Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive, along with Microsoft 365 apps like Outlook.

    You can access your meetings directly from your calendar, even if it is not a Google calendar.

    Zoom provides integrations with Google apps, Microsoft OneDrive, and Dropbox for sharing content.

    Free editions

    The free version of Zoom has some restrictions, although it is available at no cost.

    Meetings can host a maximum of 100 participants and group meetings are limited to 40 minutes. Additionally, call recordings are not allowed.

    Google Meet’s free version allows a longer duration of 1 hour and accommodates up to 100 participants, but does not support call recording.

    Interface – User interface

    Google Meet provides various alternative layouts.

    • Meet has a feature called Automatic that enables it to select the layout automatically.
    • Only the active speaker or presentation will be shown in a larger window on the sidebar, with other participants appearing in smaller windows.
    • The presentation, the speaker in action, or the fixed feed will take up the whole screen.
    • Up to 16 individuals can be shown on the screen in mosaic view when no one is presenting. However, when a presentation begins, it will be displayed in a large block while the most engaged participants will be shown in smaller blocks on the side.

    Zoom provides the option to choose from various layouts.

    • Switching the main video window to display the speaker who is addressing three or more attendees during the meeting is known as active speaker view.
    • Participants’ miniatures are shown in a grid layout in the gallery view.
    • The floating thumbnail window feature lets you minimize the app’s main window and keep a floating video window that can be moved around the screen or hidden.
    • Custom Gallery Display Organization feature enables users to arrange videos according to their preferences by dragging them. It is important to note that only the user themselves will be able to view the custom order.

    Which one should you choose: Google Meet or Zoom?

    Zoom’s 40-minute call restriction can feel limiting for certain individuals.

    Google Meet’s 60-minute time restriction is more convenient for various meetings, classes, or events that can vary in duration.

    You might prefer not to spend $15 monthly for a Professional Zoom subscription.

    If you need a basic service to easily start a video call with coworkers or friends and possibly share your screen, the free Google Meet plan is a good option.

    There is the option to upgrade to the paid version if you believe it is needed, gaining access to apps like Presentations, Drive, and Spreadsheets.

    Still unsure about Google Meet or Zoom? Learn about the Google Workspace options available through Hostbits and include Google Meet in your package!

    Click on the banner below to have all your inquiries answered.

  • Google Sheets offers 20 impressive tool functions.

    Google Sheets offers 20 impressive tool functions.

    Spreadsheets have been a part of our everyday lives since the introduction of the internet, yet we often fail to fully utilize their capabilities.

    That’s all with Google Spreadsheets.

    The Google Workspace application, which is often considered easier to use than Microsoft Excel, provides various helpful features for businesses across different industries, including time-saving commands and email validation checks.

    Hostbits chose the top features of Google Spreadsheets and compiled them in this article to help you effectively utilize this tool.

    Enjoy your reading!

    What exactly is Google Sheets?

    Google Sheets is an internet-based spreadsheet tool that enables users to make and edit spreadsheets collaboratively.

    Users have the option to directly upload spreadsheets from their computers or mobile devices.

    The application automatically saves all modifications and allows users to monitor the changes made by others in real-time.

    Google Sheets is a crucial component of the Google Workspace software package.

    This bundle also contains software like Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Forms, Google Meet, Google Keep, and more.

    Is Microsoft Excel compatible with Google Sheets?

    Google Sheets works seamlessly with Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.

    Learning to use Google Sheets is simple if you are familiar with Microsoft Excel.

    The application’s interfaces and toolbars are alike and have common features like autofill and built-in formulas for calculations like “SUM” and “AVERAGE”.

    You can conveniently access your Excel files in Google Sheets and begin collaborating.

    How can I utilize it?

    To begin using Google Sheets, you need to have a Gmail account.

    Google’s email users can utilize a complimentary Google Workspace bundle containing all the mentioned applications.

    For additional features such as increased cloud storage, personalized Gmail domains, and enhanced application capabilities, consider exploring Google Workspace business accounts.

    20 features of Google Spreadsheets that will make your life easier

    Google Sheets is a user-friendly and simple-to-navigate program.

    However, it is packed with features and shortcuts that can greatly simplify your daily tasks.

    Then we highlight the most beneficial. Take a look:

    Shortcuts and Commands in Google Sheets

    Google Sheets offers numerous keyboard shortcuts. To view a collection of shortcuts in Google Sheets, just press Ctrl + / (Windows, Chrome OS) or ⌘ + / (Mac).

    Some examples are provided below.

    Date and Time Abbreviations

    • Use Ctrl or Cmd along with the period and comma keys to insert the date.
    • Pressing Ctrl or Cmd, Shift, and the semicolon key together will insert the time.
    • Pressing Ctrl or Cmd, Alt, Shift, and the period key allows you to insert the current date and time.

    Shortcuts for Formatting

    • Format as decimal using Ctrl-Shift-1.
    • Format as time using Ctrl-Shift-2.
    • Ctrl-Shift-3: Convert to date format
    • Format as currency using Ctrl-Shift-4.
    • Format as a percentage using Ctrl-Shift-5.
    • Format as exponent: Ctrl-Shift-6

    Navigation Quick Access

    • Go back to the start of the line at home.
    • Use Ctrl + Home to navigate to the top of the page.
    • End to End Line
    • Ctrl + End will bring you to the bottom of the page
    • Use Ctrl + Backspace to navigate to the current cell.
    • Pressing Alt + Arrow down will take you to the following page.
    • Pressing Alt + Up arrow allows you to go back to the previous page.

    Receive notifications for changes made to your email.

    You can request Google Sheets to send you notifications via email whenever changes are made to a shared worksheet by a team member.

    To get notifications in your email, find the Notification Rules feature in the Tools menu to customize your settings for a particular worksheet.

    Text: 3. Formatting based on conditions

    The conditional formatting features and color scale in Google Sheets differ from Excel, but they can produce similar outcomes.

    Some individuals who are accustomed to using Microsoft software may feel confused or think that Google Sheets lacks this feature as a result.

    You can easily locate the conditional formatting feature in Google Sheets by going to Format > Conditional Formatting.

    Standardize the formatting of cells.

    It is possible to quickly copy the complete formatting of a cell and apply it to another cell.

    Click on the cell that has the desired formatting to copy it.

    Click on the icon of the “painting label,” which is located to the right of the print command on the left side of the toolbar.

    Click on the cell where you wish to apply the formatting next.

    All aspects, including the font size, color, cell shading, and numerical style, will be carried over.

    Integration with Google Forms is part of the package.

    Google Forms is an excellent companion to Google Sheets.

    You can gather information using this tool by entering data into an online search form and then organizing the outcomes in a spreadsheet.

    You can make a form by selecting the Form option from the Insert menu in Worksheets.

    When your form is complete, you can email it to others, embed it on a web page, or obtain a link to share it in various ways by clicking the Send button in the top right corner of the page.

    As the responses come in, they will show up in your worksheet as separate rows that belong to you.

    Verify that the email addresses are correct.

    You can easily verify that all email addresses in a contact list on Google Sheets are correctly formatted and do not contain errors like “.con” or missing components.

    This can help you save a significant amount of time!

    Google Sheets offers an ISEMAIL function to assist in verifying if a cell is formatted correctly as an email using the formula =ISEMAIL(cell).

    You can find additional information about this feature on this page.

    Protect data in individual cells and columns.

    If multiple individuals are working on a spreadsheet, it is advisable to restrict access to certain data to prevent mistakes, correct?

    You can prevent worksheets and specific cells from being unintentionally altered by blocking them.

    The route is easy:

    1. Choose a cell, column, or range.
    2. Access the Data tab
    3. Sheets and Intervals with Protection

    If you can’t see the “Birds and Protected Time Periods” option, you might be using the Microsoft Office version. To access this feature, convert your file to Google Sheets.

    Importing ranges from other worksheets is possible in eight.

    You can transfer data from one worksheet to another instead of storing data in multiple worksheets and opening multiple windows to search for information.

    This implies that you only have to modify the data in one place instead of multiple worksheets, leading to significant time savings.

    To bring in a selection of cells from a particular worksheet, simply use the function.

    Import data from another Google Sheets document using the IMPORTRANGE function.

    Quickly grasp formulas.

    Google Sheets simplifies the process of mastering formulas as you work.

    When you begin entering a formula, a helpful reference will appear with key information about the formula being inserted into your spreadsheet.

    Simply begin entering the formula, such as typing =SORT(, and you will observe the following:

    Duplicate information from a single cell.

    To duplicate data from a cell to other cells nearby, simply click on the original cell to select it and look for a small blue square in the bottom right corner.

    Click on this square and move it in the desired direction to the location of your choice.

    When you delete, the initial cell content will immediately show up in all other chosen cells.

    Standardize the way Dusks and Dusks are formatted.

    There is nothing worse than discovering a spreadsheet completely off track, right?

    In Google Sheets, there is a function available that quickly standardizes the capitalization of text.

    Use the functions for this purpose.

    • Using Upper(A1) will capitalize all text in any cell you specify.
    • A1’s lower function will have the same effect on small and;
    • Proper(A1) capitalizes the first letter of each word to create a title box effect.

    Validate web addresses in Google Sheets

    You can verify URLs in a spreadsheet to check for any unsuitable items in your list.

    Use the IsURL function following the steps outlined in the previous tip.

    13. Count of individual cells

    Getting a count of all unique values in a dataset containing numerous duplicate values, such as names or emails, is straightforward.

    Just utilize the UNIQUE function in Google Sheets to accomplish this.

    The UNIQUE(cell range) formula offers a distinct row count and can help you save time.

    14. Include additional features in Google Sheets

    Many additional features are available for use with Google Sheets.

    They can simplify your life and you can select the most convenient one based on your needs.

    Some of the most popular extensions in Google Sheets include Google Analytics for retrieving data from spreadsheets and Supermetrics for retrieving data from social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

    15. Include additional features in Google Sheets

    If you notice any additional spaces before or after the information in your spreadsheet, remember to utilize Google Sheets’ TRIM function.

    You can enter it into a cell of your choice, such as (=TRIM(A3)), to eliminate any spaces on the left or right and present a neater form of the cell’s content.

    Use this format for the necessary range when you want to execute the function for multiple cells simultaneously.

    • Paraphrased: Trim function applied to a range from A2 to A50 as an array formula.

    Separating Names and Other Information

    You can utilize the ‘divide text into columns’ feature found in the ‘Data’ menu to separate data from a cell into multiple cells.

    This can be beneficial when you want to delete information, such as when you want to separate first names and last names into different sections on the spreadsheet.

    Add extra features in Google Sheets

    Inserting hyperlinks in extensive datasets can be a lengthy process, but Google Sheets offers a swift resolution through the HYPERLINK function.

    The formula =HYPERLINK(URL, LINK_LABEL) enables you to swiftly insert both the link address and the display text.

    You can find additional information about the HYPERLINK function directly on Google’s website.

    Google Translate is a translation tool provided by Google.

    Google Sheets can directly translate cells in various languages within the worksheet.

    Just include =GOOGLETRANSLATE(cell) in any cell on the spreadsheet to translate it automatically.

    Add notes on Google Sheets

    If you’re examining a spreadsheet and wish to add comments to specific cells without altering the content or if you lack editing permissions, you can utilize Google Sheets’ comments function.

    Choose a cell and press Ctrl+Alt+M to insert a comment.

    A small window will pop up for you to enter your comment.

    It will appear next to the name in the email address you used to post the comment.

    Share your worksheet with other collaborators.

    Click on the Share button located in the top right corner of Google Sheets to collaborate on the worksheet in real-time.

    A pop-up window will appear, allowing you to input the email addresses of your team members who require access to the worksheet for collaboration.

    You can also specify the level of access granted to each individual as Reader, Commenter, or Editor.

    Explore more possibilities using Google Spreadsheets

    Did you find our suggestions for enhancing your efficiency in Google Sheets enjoyable? Hostbits supports you in taking your productivity to the next level!

    We are authorized to resell Google Workspace and can assist in transitioning your office to the Cloud.

    Explore more about Google Sheets and other Google Workspace apps by clicking on the banner provided.

  • Using Google – Business consultants Agenda: How to implement this tool within your organization?

    Using Google – Business consultants Agenda: How to implement this tool within your organization?

    Begin work in 2023 with all preparations completed using Google Calendar, a convenient and user-friendly tool.

    Google Calendar is a useful app for scheduling and organizing daily tasks on your mobile device, ensuring you never miss an important appointment.

    This app is a valuable tool for managing remote and hybrid teams by allowing users to access the shared schedule of all team members.

    To discover more about the functions of Google Calendar and begin using it in your daily schedule, keep reading this article!

    What is Google Calendar?

    Google Calendar is a tool for managing your schedule, organizing tasks, setting appointments, and receiving event reminders.

    Google Agenda is reliable for tracking events if you’re looking for a basic calendar.

    It is very easy to switch between the standard weekly view and monthly or daily viewing by learning how to add events or toggle.

    Inviting additional contacts or including a Google Meet video call is quite straightforward.

    Many companies have embraced Google’s agenda as an organizational tool, particularly in remote and hybrid work settings.

    Why should your company consider implementing Google Calendar?

    In the business world, it is typical for daily urgencies to distract from regular tasks.

    These include urgent meetings, client calls, and overseeing daily tasks.

    How do you handle everything?

    Having a current calendar is the simplest method to oversee your hectic schedule and daily tasks, as well as help your employees schedule their time more effectively and prepare for critical meetings in advance.

    Google Meet or Zoom: determining the appropriate tool for your meetings.

    Google Calendar can be a valuable partner for your business operations.

    Here are the primary benefits of the app for businesses similar to yours:

    It is convenient.

    You can check Google’s schedule on your phone instead of relying on wall calendars.

    Simple to enhance

    You can easily schedule appointments or activities in the calendar and receive email reminders closer to the event. If the activity involves others, you can invite them to the event.

    Send notifications to remind.

    Google reminders default times in the Calendar are set to 30 or 10 minutes before your appointment, but you have the flexibility to adjust them according to your requirements for better appointment management.

    It works with the majority of devices.

    You can access and organize your schedule across different devices using a Google account.

    Event planning based on color

    If you enjoy staying organized, you can use Google Calendar to categorize events by colors and personalize them to suit your preferences. In a professional setting, it is beneficial to establish standards so that everyone understands the significance of different colored events, such as red events indicating urgency.

    List of Tasks

    Google Calendar allows users to not only schedule public and private events but also create separate task lists that can be shared with others for tracking task progress.

    Attach files

    Instead of writing a lengthy description, summarize key points about the meeting and include an attached document for interested individuals to refer to. This way, you can streamline the meeting and avoid lengthy introductions and explanations.

    It is an excellent tool for comparing schedules.

    Most people possess a Google account, which enables them to easily share events and coordinate schedules with others. Additionally, a feature allows users to send their schedules to others so that they can arrange a convenient meeting time.

    Definition of working hours

    With Google Calendar, you can establish your working hours to prevent scheduling meetings outside of that time. You can also share public calendars with customers or suppliers for scheduling meetings at your convenience.

    Ideal for clients using Google Workspace

    If you are already utilizing Google Workspace for your business, Google Calendar is essential for organizing your work activities.

    The application icon is easily visible in the Gmail sidebar, and you can also send event invitations to your Google contacts.

    Discover more: Find out how to utilize Google Slides to craft unique presentations.

    Google Workspace users have access to a range of work-related features, including those designed for remote or hybrid teams.

    If you need a calendar to organize a professional team, Google Calendar is the ideal choice.

    How can I set up a Google Calendar account?

    To set up a Google Agenda account, visit the Google search bar and enter Gmail.

    Click on the Gmail symbol and choose the option “Sign up”.

    Once you provide your required personal details, you will receive a greeting message from the Google community.

    Log in to your Google account, access the “Google Apps” icon in the top right corner of the Google page, and select “Calendar”.

    If you wish to utilize the phone’s schedule, you need to download it from Google Apps and use it as a standalone app, similar to Google Meeting.

    Begin utilizing Google Calendar immediately!

    Google Workspace provides small business owners with all the necessary office tools for remote work.

    Google Calendar is just one of many options available.

    Throughout this article, we have observed that the app is a valuable resource for small business owners to effectively organize their schedules, tasks, and appointments.

    Consider using Google Workspace and all Google productivity apps to begin the year with excellent organization. Click on the banner below for more information!

  • Google Bard is an AI tool designed for use in Google Workspace.

    Google Bard is an AI tool designed for use in Google Workspace.

    Imagine having Google Bard integrated into Docs, Gmail, and other Google Workspace apps.

    This is already achievable and has the potential to enhance your efficiency and that of your team.

    Google Bard’s integration into Workspace tools provides a strong AI tool that can change how you engage with your daily tasks and work together with colleagues.

    We will discuss the concept of Google Bard and how you can utilize this AI to enhance your digital desktop tasks.

    Discover how Bard can enhance your Google Workspace experience with increased efficiency and intelligence.

    Enjoyable reading!

    What exactly is Google Bard?

    Google Bard is a chatbot powered by AI technology.

    He utilizes an advanced form of language known as LaMDA to respond to queries in a human-like and innovative manner.

    Unlike ChatGPT, Bard has internet access to provide improved responses and is capable of coding in various programming languages.

    It can be found in numerous locations worldwide and is offered in three different languages.

    You can utilize it for prompt responses and access other Google services like Google Maps.

    After the initial morning trial and reception periods, people are now able to utilize Google Bard and depend on artificial intelligence to complete different tasks.

    What are the primary roles of Google Bard?

    Google Bard is a versatile tool that offers various ways to simplify your life.

    Here are some tips for maximizing your experience with Bard:

    Bard can access the internet in real-time, offering current information quickly, which is beneficial for students and professionals seeking fast answers.

    You have the option to converse with Bard using voice commands instead of typing, which can enhance communication speed and accessibility, particularly beneficial for individuals facing typing challenges.

    Bard makes it simple to export the text you create, which is convenient for saving or sharing information.

    Ask Bard for a webpage summary to save time and quickly gather key information from online articles.

    Bard provides different response choices for one question, enabling you to select the most appropriate one.

    Bard can assist programmers in writing and comprehending code in different programming languages.

    Bard recommends additional research to enhance your understanding.

    How can Google Bard be utilized?

    Using Google Bard in Brazil is simple and accessible to all, as shown in this detailed tutorial.

    1. Visit https://bard.google.com/
    2. On the homepage, you will quickly find examples of the chatbot’s features. To access, click on the “Login” button situated at the bottom right or top of the page and log in with your personal Google account.
    3. Bard will display the Privacy Terms after you log in. These terms cover details regarding the collection of your location data and the retention of your research history for a maximum of 18 months. To proceed, simply scroll down and select the “I agree” button in blue.
    4. You will then be directed to the Bard and a message will indicate that it is in the experimental stage, suggesting that your responses may not always be precise. Click on “Continue.”

    Bard serves as both a Google search engine and ChatGPT.

    Simply input your question or inquiry, and it will generate a response in a conversational format.

    Now you’re prepared to utilize Google Bard and make the most of its functions.

    Keep in mind that Bard might be tested, so sometimes your responses may not be completely correct.

    Can Google Bard be utilized in Workspace?

    Introducing Bard Extensions

    With Extensions (offered in English), you can utilize Bard to discover and showcase pertinent details from the tools you regularly use, like Gmail, Docs, Drive, and Google Maps.

    This applies even if the required information is spread across different applications and services.

    Imagine you are seeking a new job and utilizing Bard to help you in the application process.

    You can request Bard to do this.

    Please summarize my resume titled June 2023 from my Drive into a short personal statement paragraph.

    Shortly after, it will continue to assist with the development of your updated cover letter.

    The Google Workspace team of developers also prioritizes security and privacy.

    If you opt to utilize the extensions, your Gmail, Docs, and Drive content will not be reviewed by people, utilized by Bard for advertising purposes, or employed to train the Bard model.

    You have complete control over your privacy settings and can activate or deactivate these extensions whenever you want.

    How can Bard be activated in Google Workspace?

    Bard is disabled by default and has not been activated for all Google Workspace users.

    Only administrators have the authority to activate Bard for your organization and can choose to make it accessible to all users.

    To activate Bard, follow these instructions:

    1. Go to the Google Workspace website and access the Google Administration Console.
    2. Shortly after, click on “Applications”.
    3. Click on “Extra Google Services” next.
    4. Click on “Precipate Access Apps” at a later time.
    5. Locate Bard in the Early Access Apps list and select the “Enable” option.

    Begin utilizing Google Bard!

    Google Bard is a potent tool that can enhance productivity and creativity when using Google Workspace.

    If your office doesn’t utilize Google Workspace, we encourage you to begin discovering the benefits it provides.

    HostBits is available to offer the required assistance to help you apply this solution in your company.

    Start your journey towards productivity and efficiency by contacting us!