Google has unveiled an update for its Drive cloud storage service that will simplify cross-company collaboration for all parties.
According to a recent blog post(opens in new tab), Google Drive's visitor sharing function will now go beyond enabling access to files for those without a Google account.
Non-Google users will now be able to upload files to shared folders controlled by Google Workspace customers in addition to viewing, commenting on, and editing Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
Google Drive integration
Although there are a few ancillary players, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace essentially control the productivity and office software industry. Recent data gathered for TechRadar Pro indicates that the former is preferred by 58.2% of US organisations, while 15% choose Google's suite.
Customers will ultimately profit from healthy competition, but when companies are forced to work with other enterprises that don't use the same software package, issues can occur.
Both Microsoft and Google have made modifications to address this issue, reducing the amount of friction users experience and making it simpler to switch across suites if businesses decide to switch providers.
For instance, Google Docs can import Microsoft Word documents, while PowerPoint-compatible versions of Google Slides can be downloaded. The introduction of guest sharing for Google Drive also removed several obstacles to file sharing between enterprises.
The most recent version, however, goes a step further by enabling other collaborators to upload files and create content within Google Drive in addition to having access to already-existing documents.
The primary qualification is that not all users will have access to the new Google Drive capability. Although the majority of paying customers will have access, neither traditional G Suite Basic and Business customers nor those on the Business Starter and Enterprise basics plans will be able to use the functionality.
Owners of personal accounts will not be allowed to contribute to shared Drive folders, regardless of whether they pay a subscription fee or not.
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