Staffing options for LibraryH3lp come in three basic flavors: web, desktop, and mobile. In a nutshell, web clients are convenient because there is nothing to install and they run in your browser. Desktop clients are the most robust and configurable option. And mobile clients help you stay available when you're on the go using smartphones and tablets.
Staffing from a web client (like our own simple and powerful webchat client) is a fine option in many cases, especially for those who staff in shifts for a few hours here and there. And it is a great place to begin when first starting out with LibraryH3lp.
But you might find that a desktop client better fits your workflow.
But you might find that a desktop client better fits your workflow.
- It's separate from your web browser, which means less clutter when chatting.
- Automatic start up and sign in option, no need to remember to visit a web page to login.
- Many clients automatically set your status to "away" or "offline" based on keyboard/mouse idle time.
- Highly customizable sound and visual message alerts.
Plus desktop clients best handle network instabilities since they have direct, specialized operating system access. The most popular desktop clients for staffing LibraryH3lp include Pidgin, Adium, Digsby, Jitsi, and Trillian.
An increasing number of librarians are staffing from tablets and smartphones. For the mobile librarian, Jabber/XMPP chat apps are a great way to go. Beyond staffing your virtual reference service from a mobile device, you could simply be available for your colleagues via the LibraryH3lp buddy list when you're on the move. Push (background) notifications notify you of incoming messages even if your device is locked, or the app is not on top.
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| Answering a chat in the One Team client for iPad. |
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