If you want to bring a number of people scattered around the country (or even the world) together for a meeting, it can be a logistical nightmare. Hotels, trains, planes - any aspect of arranging a get-together can be fraught with difficulties. Bringing the meeting to the attendees is another option - videoconferencing has been around for some years now, but it involves investment in what can be costly equipment at static sites.

A newer, more flexible option comes in the form of communication over the web. Collaborative tools are becoming more and more widespread - our workshop session uses a very basic form, but more sophisticated systems allow you to view other people, their presentations and hear them as well. Throughout April, Centra, providers of collaborative tools, are offering the chance to try out their online meeting tool for free.

To try it out, go to www.centra.com/marchmadness For more information on using collborative tools, read our latest Expert Guide.