In order to make it easier for other users to get in touch with you (via directory services, computer conferencing links, instant messaging services) you may provide the necessary information in your personal profile by selecting Options Profile Change and choosing the Communication tab where you may enter the following information:
• Directory services – check the directory services in which you are listed and which you would like to offer to other users when they are going to contact you. Enter the ‘User directory search key’ under which you are to be found in the directory services selected.
• Communication capabilities – BSCW identifies the IP address used by your computer automatically. The result, however, may not be correct if you use a proxy server or work behind a firewall. In this case, you should specify under ‘Fixed IP’ the IP address to be used by BSCW for synchronous communication. Depending on your computer network, there are different ways to determine this address – if in doubt, ask your system or network administrator.
• Communication accessories – specify the computer conferencing programs that are available on your computer. Correct specifications and the appropriate configuration of your browser enable BSCW to automatically set up links to partners with corresponding equipment (see next section).
• Instant messaging – specify user number or user identification for those instant messaging systems that you use and that you would like to offer to other BSCW users when they are going to contact you. Instant messaging services allow real-time communication between two or more users, utilizing plain text messages, voice or even video telephony. Click the [More Information] buttons to learn more about systems that you do not know yet.