This is an interesting review from TechCrunch, a blog "dedicated to obsessively profiling and reviewing new Internet products and companies":
Riley, D. (2007, July 19). The Jing Project: The 3 legged dog of screen captures and screencasting [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.techcrunch.com/2007/07/19/the-jing-project-the-3-legged-dog-of-screen-captures-and-screencasting/
The author admits that Jing is free, so he shouldn't be too critical, but he definitely had some major issues with the program. The first problem is that Jing only saves screencasts in Flash .swf files, which do not work well on video sharing sites such as YouTube. He describes Screencast.com as "horrible," stating that he was unable to view some test screenshots he had created. Another drawback listed was that Jing does not offer any html codes to easily embed screencasts on a website. Overall, the author says that if you don't mind the limited features, it's a decent tool, but "the Jing Project is just like a 3 legged dog; you can easily love it, it barks, but it just can’t do everything a 4 legged dog could and should do."
An important thing to consider is that this blog entry was written in 2007. Jing itself has probably not changed much since then, but more video sharing sites are accepting a wider range of video file formats. YouTube claims that you can upload almost any type of video file, although some formats do work better (mpeg, etc). Also important, and as the author stated himself, is that Jing is a free program. In my opinion, the quality and types of features available with this software are quite good for the price or lack thereof. Jing may not be perfect, but it is a simple, easy to use program that anyone can access for free, ideal for those of us who are not as technologically savvy or cannot afford more advanced types of software.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Resource Review 7 - Another Jing Review
I found this review much more balanced than some of the previous ones:
Rethlefsen, M. L. (2009). Product pipeline. Library Journal, 134(1), S12-S14.
The author states that Jing is probably best suited for "novices" due to its limited options. Even though videos cannot be edited after they are created, the quality is quite good despite the small files sizes. Although the video quality is good, the author mentions that the audio quality is "mid-range." Rethlefsen also comments on the convenience provided by the simple uploading and sharing of content provided by Screencast.com. Also notable is that Jing promotes itself through links and watermarks attached to all the media created with the program. The the fact that videos created with Jing have a 5 minute time limit also hinders the range of capabilities one might use the program for. The author makes a few recommendations for libraries, stating that Jing's video length limitation means that videos should be pre-planned in advance, which is not always possible in the library setting. Due to its simplicity, Jing would also be a good program to install on patron computers. Finally, the author mentions that Jing is becoming more popular in the gaming world as a way to capture on screen action when playing video games on the computer.
This article presented a much more balanced view of the product than some of the other articles I've come across in my research. It also makes recommendations for libraries in terms of product usage, which is more relevant to this research project since I myself am trying to determine how Jing fits into virtual reference in today's libraries. The fact that the article comes from Library Journal definitely explains this, as this is obviously a library-centered resource.
Rethlefsen, M. L. (2009). Product pipeline. Library Journal, 134(1), S12-S14.
The author states that Jing is probably best suited for "novices" due to its limited options. Even though videos cannot be edited after they are created, the quality is quite good despite the small files sizes. Although the video quality is good, the author mentions that the audio quality is "mid-range." Rethlefsen also comments on the convenience provided by the simple uploading and sharing of content provided by Screencast.com. Also notable is that Jing promotes itself through links and watermarks attached to all the media created with the program. The the fact that videos created with Jing have a 5 minute time limit also hinders the range of capabilities one might use the program for. The author makes a few recommendations for libraries, stating that Jing's video length limitation means that videos should be pre-planned in advance, which is not always possible in the library setting. Due to its simplicity, Jing would also be a good program to install on patron computers. Finally, the author mentions that Jing is becoming more popular in the gaming world as a way to capture on screen action when playing video games on the computer.
This article presented a much more balanced view of the product than some of the other articles I've come across in my research. It also makes recommendations for libraries in terms of product usage, which is more relevant to this research project since I myself am trying to determine how Jing fits into virtual reference in today's libraries. The fact that the article comes from Library Journal definitely explains this, as this is obviously a library-centered resource.
Resource Review 6 - Screen Capturing and Libraries
The following article addresses some very important issues for libraries in relation to virtual reference and screencasting:
Watson, J. (2004). Going beyond screen captures: Integrating video screen recording into your library instruction program. Feliciter, 50(2), 66-67.
The author stresses that in this age of digital technology, librarians need tools to teach and relay information to patrons in online environments. Distance education and off campus access to resources have made this even more crucial. Some of the earlier digital tools that aided libraries were PowerPoint, the simple "Print Screen" function on most keyboards, and a program called Viewlet Builder. Although these programs worked for basic purposes, the author states that they "lack the fluidity of seeing real-time database searching" (p. 66). In this case, screen capturing software that includes video capabilities is more ideal. Some of the products recommended by the author include SnagIt and Camtasia (both created by TechSmith), and another program called RoboDemo. RoboDemo not only has video creation capabilities, but it apparently has the ability to create quizzes that accompany a video. This is an additional teaching tool that might come in handy for librarians and educators alike. Finally, the author recommends downloading trial versions of different products to compare functionality so that libraries may better evaluate what type of product they need.
Even though Jing was not mentioned in this article, possibly due to the fact that its video capturing capabilities are quite limited, it is still relevant to the issues addressed. Librarians may find Jing a good starting program to familiarize oneself with when creating screen capturing videos. Other programs like Camtasia are more advanced and could possibly take much longer to learn. Jing makes sharing videos extremely easy and now allows the creator to include voice-overs. The software, although limited in features, is generally useful for simple video creation, and is already being used by many libraries in virtual reference.
Watson, J. (2004). Going beyond screen captures: Integrating video screen recording into your library instruction program. Feliciter, 50(2), 66-67.
The author stresses that in this age of digital technology, librarians need tools to teach and relay information to patrons in online environments. Distance education and off campus access to resources have made this even more crucial. Some of the earlier digital tools that aided libraries were PowerPoint, the simple "Print Screen" function on most keyboards, and a program called Viewlet Builder. Although these programs worked for basic purposes, the author states that they "lack the fluidity of seeing real-time database searching" (p. 66). In this case, screen capturing software that includes video capabilities is more ideal. Some of the products recommended by the author include SnagIt and Camtasia (both created by TechSmith), and another program called RoboDemo. RoboDemo not only has video creation capabilities, but it apparently has the ability to create quizzes that accompany a video. This is an additional teaching tool that might come in handy for librarians and educators alike. Finally, the author recommends downloading trial versions of different products to compare functionality so that libraries may better evaluate what type of product they need.
Even though Jing was not mentioned in this article, possibly due to the fact that its video capturing capabilities are quite limited, it is still relevant to the issues addressed. Librarians may find Jing a good starting program to familiarize oneself with when creating screen capturing videos. Other programs like Camtasia are more advanced and could possibly take much longer to learn. Jing makes sharing videos extremely easy and now allows the creator to include voice-overs. The software, although limited in features, is generally useful for simple video creation, and is already being used by many libraries in virtual reference.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Resource Review 5 - Positive review of Jing
In the following article, author Shelly Drumm reviews Jing in a very positive light:
Drumm, S. (2007). The great TechScape. Action for Libraries, 33(3), 4-12.
The article gives a brief overview of the product, and the author raves about the simplicity of Jing, stating that she might even use it to teach her mother how to use eBay. The fact that Jing is still free is very appealing, especially to this reviewer. Other products by TechSmith, the creator of Jing, such as SnagIt and Camtasia are available but are not free. This reviewer also found that sharing screen shots or videos created with Jing are extremely easy to share over the web. Overall, the author seemed very excited about Jing in general and how it will be used in the future.
I generally agree with this review. Jing is indeed easy to use and is most certainly cost efficient. I do wish, however, that the reviewer would have included at least one drawback to the software. Positive reviews are helpful, but well balanced reviews are even more helpful for those that are looking to compare different products or just trying to figure out which program to use. I find that although Jing is a great product and easy to use, there are certain drawbacks. The videos have a time limit, and there is no option to edit a video once it has been created so it may take several tries to create a successful clip. Internet speed also affects the performance of video playback and uploading. But despite the drawbacks, Jing seems to be a decent product and a good value for its price.
Drumm, S. (2007). The great TechScape. Action for Libraries, 33(3), 4-12.
The article gives a brief overview of the product, and the author raves about the simplicity of Jing, stating that she might even use it to teach her mother how to use eBay. The fact that Jing is still free is very appealing, especially to this reviewer. Other products by TechSmith, the creator of Jing, such as SnagIt and Camtasia are available but are not free. This reviewer also found that sharing screen shots or videos created with Jing are extremely easy to share over the web. Overall, the author seemed very excited about Jing in general and how it will be used in the future.
I generally agree with this review. Jing is indeed easy to use and is most certainly cost efficient. I do wish, however, that the reviewer would have included at least one drawback to the software. Positive reviews are helpful, but well balanced reviews are even more helpful for those that are looking to compare different products or just trying to figure out which program to use. I find that although Jing is a great product and easy to use, there are certain drawbacks. The videos have a time limit, and there is no option to edit a video once it has been created so it may take several tries to create a successful clip. Internet speed also affects the performance of video playback and uploading. But despite the drawbacks, Jing seems to be a decent product and a good value for its price.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Resource Review 4 - Screen Capturing Over Time
I recently came across an interesting article from 1997 which discusses screen capturing as it existed then:
Ekhaml, L. (1997). Taking electronic snapshots of your computer screen. School Library Media Activities Monthly, 13(8), 40.
The article describes some of the programs and capabilities of various types of screen capturing software available at that time. What is most interesting is that after reading the article, I realized that not a whole lot has changed since then. Although much of the hardware has changed, the basic concept of screen capturing is still the same after more than 12 years, which seems like a lifetime from a technological standpoint.
Programs such as SnagIt (also created by TechSmith) have been around since the early 1990's, and have indeed added numerous functions to create a better screen capturing experience and keep up with new technology. But, as I stated before, despite all the upgrading, the basic concept remains the same. It will be interesting to see if and how these programs will change as technology becomes more interactive into the future.
Ekhaml, L. (1997). Taking electronic snapshots of your computer screen. School Library Media Activities Monthly, 13(8), 40.
The article describes some of the programs and capabilities of various types of screen capturing software available at that time. What is most interesting is that after reading the article, I realized that not a whole lot has changed since then. Although much of the hardware has changed, the basic concept of screen capturing is still the same after more than 12 years, which seems like a lifetime from a technological standpoint.
Programs such as SnagIt (also created by TechSmith) have been around since the early 1990's, and have indeed added numerous functions to create a better screen capturing experience and keep up with new technology. But, as I stated before, despite all the upgrading, the basic concept remains the same. It will be interesting to see if and how these programs will change as technology becomes more interactive into the future.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Resource Review 3 - Jing and Virtual Reference
The following article discusses the potential benefits to libraries in using screen capturing software in virtual reference:
Sekyere, K. (2009). Enhancing your virtual reference services with video snippets. Kentucky Libraries, 73(2), 18-20.
The author explains that video clips created with programs such as Jing can help librarians in virtual reference services in a variety of ways. A librarian handling a virtual reference question may create a video walking a patron through a particular series of steps in finding sources of information. Once the video is created, the librarian can send the patron a link to the video, and the patron may save the video and use it over and over, or share it with another person. This would be especially helpful in chat or email services and would allow patrons using virtual reference services to better utilize librarian assistance.
Even though there are other screen capturing programs available for purchase, the author states that libraries might consider using free programs such as Jing as a preliminary test of these types of services. Once they have become familiar with screen capturing software, they may better evaluate other programs, determine how each might benefit their reference services, and then figure out which program to purchase if necessary. For smaller libraries, the free programs are optimal due to limited budgets.
Sekyere, K. (2009). Enhancing your virtual reference services with video snippets. Kentucky Libraries, 73(2), 18-20.
The author explains that video clips created with programs such as Jing can help librarians in virtual reference services in a variety of ways. A librarian handling a virtual reference question may create a video walking a patron through a particular series of steps in finding sources of information. Once the video is created, the librarian can send the patron a link to the video, and the patron may save the video and use it over and over, or share it with another person. This would be especially helpful in chat or email services and would allow patrons using virtual reference services to better utilize librarian assistance.
Even though there are other screen capturing programs available for purchase, the author states that libraries might consider using free programs such as Jing as a preliminary test of these types of services. Once they have become familiar with screen capturing software, they may better evaluate other programs, determine how each might benefit their reference services, and then figure out which program to purchase if necessary. For smaller libraries, the free programs are optimal due to limited budgets.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Resource Review 2 - Jing Blog
Jing's website, www.jingproject.com, also features a blog:
http://blog.jingproject.com/
The blog discusses all Jing-related topics, and features video clips of the different ways in which people have used Jing. One of the recent posts includes a handy downloadable PDF introducing the software and how to use it properly:
http://blog.jingproject.com/2009/08/welcome-to-jing---a-guide-to-t.html
Entries are written mostly by company officials, but they do encourage people to contact them with ideas for new uses. The blog aims to collaborate among company officials and users to make Jing better and promote usage. It seems to be a great way to troubleshoot the program and find out more information about it in general. New entries are posted once every few days, and involve a variety of topics. Although Jing is free, it is interesting that the company has made such an effort to reach users and promote this product. Perhaps this is because Jing is created by TechSmith, a larger company responsible for more advanced and expensive programs like SnagIt and Camtasia. In a way, Jing is sort of a gateway for users to begin experimenting with these types of software and perhaps find the need for more features through other programs in the future.
http://blog.jingproject.com/
The blog discusses all Jing-related topics, and features video clips of the different ways in which people have used Jing. One of the recent posts includes a handy downloadable PDF introducing the software and how to use it properly:
http://blog.jingproject.com/2009/08/welcome-to-jing---a-guide-to-t.html
Entries are written mostly by company officials, but they do encourage people to contact them with ideas for new uses. The blog aims to collaborate among company officials and users to make Jing better and promote usage. It seems to be a great way to troubleshoot the program and find out more information about it in general. New entries are posted once every few days, and involve a variety of topics. Although Jing is free, it is interesting that the company has made such an effort to reach users and promote this product. Perhaps this is because Jing is created by TechSmith, a larger company responsible for more advanced and expensive programs like SnagIt and Camtasia. In a way, Jing is sort of a gateway for users to begin experimenting with these types of software and perhaps find the need for more features through other programs in the future.
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