TokBox, next level in social networking

TokBox is a web-based video chat application that lets you set-up video chat channels with unregistered users in seconds. The application has a simple user interface with controls for volume, muting and camera off. When you want to invite some to a video chat all you have to do is send them an email link or direct them to your user page. You can also add their Facebook application or embed your video chat channel on your website or MySpace page.

TokBox also has social-networking features so you can add friends you video chat with often. The product also detects installed cameras and microphones, which is helpful in cutting out technology barriers for mainstream users.

Toxbox has a very straightforward interface. If some is available to chat all you have to do is push the “Push to Talk” button and you connect, and if the person isn’t available you can leave them video mail or voicemail.

Also, Tokbox allows you to pull the video chat out of the browser and go to other websites or applications without disrupting the conversation. To do this you need to enable browser pop-ups.

And I used to love Skype....

When I first encountered Skype they where just a small start-up headed by Janus and Nicklas. I just loved to support a company who had in mind to "kill" all the BIG telco's around the globe. But now Skype have grown, even bigger than many telco's, and the service level is low. And their billing system is even worse.

For two weeks now I have tried to purchase Skype credits, using my Visa, using my Mastercard, using PayPal, and even trying to use my girlfriends Visa... but no,no, everytime I get reply messages saying the purchase was cancelled due to some unexplained problem. I have written about this both to Skypes support and in their forum. And looking at the forum I realize I'm not alone having problems.

I have checked with PayPal and with my bank and Visa... but there is no solution it seems.

I just wonder if the Skype investors knows about the problems? At least, if I where an investor I should demand that they solve their issues with payment problems.

Have Software resellers missed the train?

All the big and small software resellers - the companies with the packages and CD's - have probably already missed the SaaS train. At least I have not seen anyone who has presented a strategy, or a proof of concept. Instead it seems as if all the developing companies have organized their own sales and distribution. Is it because the resellers have not grasped the business models, or is it because they still believe SaaS will never be a threat on the market?

So here is a list of companies who should consider to evaluate SaaS as their next move:

- Insight
- Techdata

Quinyx FlexForce is a real hit

Quinyx FlexForce is a web based system to plan and manage flexible workforces. Developed and managed by Erik Fjellborg, a Swedish entrepreneur with high ambitions. Erik got his idea of being an independent SW developer when working at McDonalds, where he spotted an opportunity to change their old fashioned resource system. Now Erik has the ambition to take on the globe with his solution. Best of luck Erik.

If you missed SIME in Stockholm

SIME 08 - Morten Lund from SIME on Vimeo.

Sime is a really great conference for people interested in interactive new media. If you missed this seasons session you can view some of the keynote speakers and other interesting people at Vimeo.