Choosing which online cloud file storage solution can be difficult. Each service has some unique advantages and there are many to choose from: Adobe SendNow (see our review), Amazon Cloud Drive, Apple iCloud, Box.com, Dropbox.com, Google Docs, and Microsoft SkyDrive. Since most companies offer some level of service for free, it’s easy to just signup for all of them and use each for their strengths. Other services offer document specific cloud storage, such as Neat Receipts for mobile and desktop scanned image storage and access.
Benefits of Box.com
File Synchronization. Box.com recently added file synchronization for Apple Mac computers and file synchronization for Windows computers. This is an essential feature that previously was only available from Dropbox.com. Web-based file sharing systems typically require manual uploads and downloads without the convenience of click and drag management for copying and moving files. With folder synchronization, Box.com and Dropbox.com are capable of offering a cloud-based file backup system.
Quick and Easy Link Access. Unlike Dropbox.com, Box.com makes it possible to create a one-click link to access folders and files. Users don’t need to signup for an account or login to get access to the data. This makes Box.com a great solution for document sharing from a website.
Shared Files are Safe. Unlike Dropbox.com, when you share folders or files, there’s no risk that someone may accidentally delete a file from the shared folder (removing it for everyone).
Revisions are Easily Identifiable. For collaborative work, or documents that may be revised and uploaded again, Box.com clearly displays what revision is currently uploaded. A shared link to a document remains the same, even if a revision has been uploaded.
Files are Easily Viewable Online. For projects that require sharing PDF files or EPS graphics, users need no special software to view documents and images with Box.com since the website has viewing tools for different file types.
Box.com is Best Choice. Given all of the above considerations, it seems that Box.com is the best overall choice for cloud storage and sharing. If you are planning to pay for advanced features and additional storage, Box.com is probably the best service to choose.
Need help making use of Box.com and other cloud storage solutions? Contact us for training and support.