Overview
What is HCL Notes?
Notes from HCL (formerly from IBM, acquired by HCL in late 2018) is a collaboration platform based on the Lotus platform.
HCL
Convenient Platform For Global Organizational Management
IBM Notes Full Feature Email and More, a Good Mid-Size Solution
Lotus Notes Insights
IBM Notes is basic, but gets the job done
IBM Notes: Decent interface, old school style
Notes is dead! But not really - it can still benefit you!
Strong Secure Email Collaborative Suite with Competitive Edge!
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IBM Notes an Application lost in the Wilderness of Technology
IBM's Notes platform represents tons of ROI.
Our organization has had, in the past, …
IBM Notes & RAD
Notes then and now
What is IBM Notes doing?
Notes basics
Popular Features
- Notifications (10)9.090%
- Mobile Access (10)8.080%
- Task Management (9)7.070%
- Chat (10)6.060%
Pricing
What is HCL Notes?
Notes from HCL (formerly from IBM, acquired by HCL in late 2018) is a collaboration platform based on the Lotus platform.
Entry-level set up fee?
- No setup fee
Offerings
- Free Trial
- Free/Freemium Version
- Premium Consulting/Integration Services
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Product Demos
How To View Emails as Conversations and Original Message in HCL Notes
05 NCUG Spring Seminar 2021 - DOMI: Create meetings in HCL Notes for Teams, Zoom, WebEx and Sametime
Features
Project Management
Project management software provides capabilities to streamline management of complex projects through task management, team collaboration and workflow automation
- 7Task Management(9) Ratings
This includes the ability to plan, track, collaborate and report on tasks.
- 6Gantt Charts(3) Ratings
Gantt charts are charts that show tasks or events along the y-axis displayed against time along the x-axis.
- 8Scheduling(9) Ratings
Scheduling capabilities allow users to set schedules on tasks, and create timelines and milestones.
- 5Workflow Automation(6) Ratings
Workflow automation is the ability to route work requests along an approval process automatically.
- 8Mobile Access(10) Ratings
Mobile access is the ability to access the software from a smartphone or tablet.
- 6Search(9) Ratings
Users can search for related materials across files, discussions threads, schedules, etc. using project keywords or tags.
- 8Visual planning tools(3) Ratings
Includes visual tools such as pinboards, mind-maps, or charts for collaborative brainstorming and/or workflow planning.
Communication
Features that allow team members to communicate about collaborative projects and keep each other informed of their opinions and progress.
- 6Chat(10) Ratings
Instant messaging tool allows users to communicate with select other users in real-time threads.
- 9Notifications(10) Ratings
Users can follow other users and/or join specific projects, electing to receive notifications when there are changes and updates.
- 9.5Discussions(7) Ratings
Users can join groups or message boards for forum-style collaboration.
- 9.1Surveys(4) Ratings
Users can create and participate in surveys to get input from other collaborators.
- 10Internal knowledgebase(6) Ratings
Users can author or access “How-to” help and reference tips about internal processes.
- 10Integrates with GoToMeeting(3) Ratings
Integrates with GoToMeeting for web conferencing.
- 10Integrates with Gmail and Google Hangouts(2) Ratings
Integrates with Gmail and Google Hangouts.
- 10Integrates with Outlook(5) Ratings
Integrates with Microsoft Outlook to tie in email threads.
File Sharing & Management
Features that allow collaborators to view, work on, and organize files.
- 9Versioning(4) Ratings
Users can access the most up-to-date version of a document, track changes, and revert to older versions if needed.
- 6Video files(5) Ratings
Supports video file types
- 6Audio files(5) Ratings
Supports audio file types, such as .mp3, .mp4, and .wav
- 8Document collaboration(8) Ratings
Users can edit files and attach comments to files.
- 6Access control(8) Ratings
Users can control access to (shared) files, including different levels of access such as view-only or permission to edit.
- 8Advanced security features(8) Ratings
Includes advanced security features such as file encryption or remote data wipe.
- 10Integrates with Google Drive(2) Ratings
Integrates with Google's cloud storage platform, Google Drive.
- 8Device sync(5) Ratings
Device syncing that updates files connected to the cloud, keeping all files up to date regardless of where they are edited or viewed.
Product Details
- About
- Competitors
- Tech Details
- FAQs
What is HCL Notes?
HCL Notes Competitors
HCL Notes Technical Details
Operating Systems | Unspecified |
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Mobile Application | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Comparisons
Compare with
Reviews and Ratings
(92)Community Insights
- Business Problems Solved
- Pros
- Cons
- Recommendations
HCL Notes, used by users worldwide, has a wide range of use cases that cater to various functions within an organization. Users rely on HCL Notes for essential tasks such as managing emails, sending meeting invites, booking meeting rooms, accessing the company intranet, and sharing templates. The platform also serves as a reliable tool for leave management, notebook entry, creating to-do lists, and raising IT issues. With these diverse functionalities, HCL Notes standardizes processes across regions, facilitating fast and efficient global communication within the company.
Internally developed Lotus Notes databases are widely utilized for storing infrastructure inventory, workflows, work queue for builds and audits. These databases are often integrated with ERP and ticketing systems, providing seamless integration with existing tools. Moreover, the robust workflow capabilities of HCL Notes have allowed organizations to replace paper-based approval systems with secure digital workflows that offer an audit trail and enhanced security.
Furthermore, HCL Notes is increasingly being used on mobile devices, with about a third of the organization utilizing its mail, calendar, and contacts features on their smartphones or tablets. It serves as a central hub for collaboration with its sidebar app for Sametime providing chat functionality, presence awareness, web meetings, audio/video conferencing. In addition to its collaborative features, HCL Notes also functions as a development platform where users can create departmental and multi-departmental apps that integrate seamlessly with various databases and platforms.
Notes is highly regarded for its quick development capabilities and easy integration with new releases. Its versatility extends beyond email and calendar functions; it serves as a reliable CRM system integrated with back-end accounting systems in some organizations. By leveraging HCL Notes' document management capabilities and internal workflow features, users can maintain an organized repository of client-specific details while saving time navigating through relevant information. The platform's user-friendly experience enables users to access critical data easily while enjoying enhanced security measures.
Overall, HCL Notes has proven to be a vital tool for organizations, offering a wide range of use cases and functionalities. Its seamless integration with existing systems, robust workflow capabilities, and mobile accessibility make it an indispensable asset for efficient communication, collaboration, and data management.
Seamless Integration: Users have found that HCL Notes can be easily integrated with other software platforms, such as Sametime chat, Concur, and Productivity Management System. This integration allows for seamless communication and access to various tools and resources.
Efficient Calendar Management: The calendar management feature in HCL Notes is highly praised by users. Once they accept a meeting invite, their calendar is automatically updated, and they can easily view all their meetings for the day or week. Additionally, users can book meeting rooms, and the availability of these rooms is visible to all employees, making it convenient for planning meetings.
Robust Database and Custom Applications: Users commend the strong database of HCL Notes which is extremely scalable and can handle thousands of users effectively. They also appreciate the enterprise-grade framework for developing custom database applications in HCL Notes. This simplicity of access makes it convenient for users while reducing administrative burdens.
Slow web browsing capabilities: Some users have experienced slow web browsing capabilities in HCL Notes, with extended connection and loading times for web content. Users have mentioned that links shared in HCL Notes emails often fail to connect and sometimes the web content is not visible, requiring them to manually copy and paste the link in another browser.
Unappealing user interface: Less tech-savvy users and new users have expressed their dissatisfaction with the unappealing user interface of HCL Notes. It is suggested that improvements should be made to make it more visually appealing and user-friendly.
Backward compatibility issues: The backward compatibility of HCL Notes can be problematic at times, causing cluttered menus and outdated options that are not commonly used by modern users. Navigating preferences can also be challenging for those transitioning from other email platforms like Gmail or Outlook.
Based on user reviews, there are three common recommendations for IBM Notes:
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Consider other software options before committing to IBM Notes. Many users suggest exploring alternatives such as Microsoft Outlook or Google software before deciding on IBM Notes. They believe that these platforms provide better user interfaces, more features, and a more modern experience.
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Use IBM Notes only if there is a need for custom databases. Some users recommend using IBM Notes specifically for its ability to build custom databases that integrate with the email system. They believe that this feature sets it apart from other email platforms.
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Keep options open and explore different solutions. Several reviewers advise against relying solely on IBM Notes and encourage keeping options open by not getting locked into a single vendor's proprietary software. They suggest considering different platforms and not being hesitant to migrate to a different solution if needed.
Overall, while some users appreciate IBM Notes for its secure email services and custom database capabilities, many recommend looking at other software options with better user interfaces and more features before committing to the platform.
Attribute Ratings
Reviews
(1-5 of 5)IBM Notes & RAD
Effective Level of Measurement:
#1 Workflow Apps - IBM Notes is secure, Ease and Fast to develop, intergrate with Lotus Notes Mail or any other email platform easily.
#2 Intranet Sites/Apps/Document Management - Very quick and easy to put up an app like Order Online, Document Library, Room Reservation, HR apps, or an Inquiries type of apps.
#3 Clients/Servers Apps - Secure and easy to intergrate with any other databases (Oracle, SQL, DB2, mySQL) or platforms (J2EE, .NET, AS400) using Lotusscript Extension or Web Service.
#4 With the new release of Domino 8.5.3* and 9.0* (xPages, Extension Library, Dojo), design apps for mobile are very easy and quick.
IBM Notes Versus Sharepoint:
http://www.lialis.com/lotus-notes-versus-sharepoint/
- Time efficiency and faster turn around of development.
- Workflow Application Design.
- NOSQL database advantages.
- Easy Web Services development and deployment. This make it so easy to connect with other databases like Oracle, SQL, etc.
- Notes Sercurity is (A+++)
- First: For a smaller/lighter web sites and pages and internet, Notes don't have a lighter version to do so. IBM needs to improve this and come up with better solution, something like JSP or ASP platforms.
- Second: Notes license that can provide free to users for education/self learning/testing. IBM needs to more Advertise and doing a lot more better in Sale of the product. The product is very good, but still unknown to many people. We need to show that IBM Notes is not just a mail product/platform but it can do more and better in the databases and application development as well.
- New version of Domino (8.5.3x - 9.0x) have lot of improvement in term of performance and web development (Xpages) but lack of documentation/education/training. Most of the Notes Developers still new or very new to XPages. I have developed a few application in Xpages but it was very difficult to getting help and resources. We need more sample Xpages Application and more available templates for download and learn.
+ For workflow application Notes still #1 to me.
+ NOSQL is a big plus.
+ Very easy to develop/deploy Web Services.
+ XPages is very COOL, even better if jQuery can replace Dojo
- IBM needs to do more to sale Notes and get more users; the License/Cost need to adjust in order to attract more people to learn (especially, college students); if possible, we need a lighter xPage/Domino framework for Internet Pages design.
- Notes development environment will save a lot of time for any organization, especially for a small IT group with a lot of Applications and NO TIME/less resource.
- Notes is the best in Workflow application development and Security.
- The most disadvantage of Notes compared to other is the license/cost issue. Aslo, there is a need for lighter version of Notes/Domino for a lighter and faster internet pages/sites design.
- Education/Advertisement/Sale and Sale is very much need to improve by IBM.
- IBM needs to make a firm decision on which back end language to use in XPAGE (SSJS/Javabean/or JAVA)?.
Planning use Inquiries and Workflow.
Engineering use Workflow, Request Order, Library, Inventory.
Managements use for Task Tracking, Vacation Tracking, Reporting Tools, Room reservation, etc.
Human Resources.
- Workflow is the most importance application/tool that being used very widely in all departments
- Apps that require high security level.
- Report Tools also very importance and highly use across all departments.
- Data exchange/connection to other groups/platforms.
- With a small group and with too many application and support, selecting IBM Domino is the most innovative way that I think our group did.
- We've been using all the features and functionalities that IBM Notes/Domino can provide. The only feature still new to us is the mobile.
- Looking forward to see what will Domino 9 provided?
We migrated all users from IM to Sametime due to the security reason.
Notes Security is always ahead of any other platform.
- Price
- Positive Sales Experience with the Vendor
The evaluation/selection/order process in any new development tools and platforms should start with:
Security Features.
Fast and Easy to use/implement/learn.
All components should include in a Suite/Package - Email, Communication, Development, Database.
Easy to Deploy.
- Implemented in-house
- User requirement change
- User don't know or fully understand about their requirement
- Each notes database contains the design, the data, and all the security setup. The query in Notes is simple. it's just the View and the selection formula, Notes View contain all the data in a single view, and is very easy and fast to query the data. Notes is NOSQL database, all the query in notes is fast, super fast.
- Easy to deploy for Web/Client. There is no recompile (No EXE, no DLL, no Component, and no packages).
- Notes platform has it all - Sametime, Email, RAD (Development Tools), Workflow Development is nature to Notes and is the best Workflow tool available in the market, Notes Security is the best in all platforms, and more
- Based on my years of Development with Notes, I have not yet run into anything that I can't do in notes!
- For a small and simple internet webpage, notes is not really good for this small task!
Notes then and now
- It has a good way of allowing permissions to be applied.
- The Notes Design program is fairly simple to use. Anyone who remembers 'Basic' language should be able to pick it up.
- All of our modules were in one Workspace for each user.
- Workspaces were easy to set up and manipulate.
- Email integration was sometimes difficult. As an example, we periodically had issues where someone with an Apple OS would send an attachment via Mac mail and the attachment did not come through correctly.
- Domino Server updates sometimes did more harm than good and needed to be rolled back.
- Every time a Domino server had to be restarted the email, or other database, would go through a 'consistency check.' End-users could not access the databases(s) until these checks completed. When you have a 16 or 17GB database, that's a long time to wait.
- When we first started using it, and up until a couple of years ago, it really did improve efficiency and productivity. Customer service was always great to work with - they always seemed to be involved with our issues instead of reading from a script. They also usually had an answer for us very quickly.
- Microsoft Office suite and Exchange
What is IBM Notes doing?
- Fifteen years ago, IBM Notes was the best email platform in the world, both client side and server side. Even the Server application and email box, can be accessed it from the Lotus Notes client and web browser.
- IBM Notes is good for user management, database management and server management
- Server controller, certificate authority, replica and administration process are also strengths.
- IBM should release new version for Notes with new functionality in every couple of years, instead focus in project and out-sourcing
- Many companies/organizations have already moved the email platform from Domino/Notes to Exchange/Outlook; some smaller companies moved to the cloud,.
Notes basics
- Security
- Rapid Application Development
- Offline Work
- Steep learning curve
- Lot of functions unknown to users
- Increased efficiency
- Consolidation of data
IBM Notes help me to be a better consultant
- Simple, plain text for the email client.
- Good document management capabilities.
- Direct integration within the organization through Sametime (instant message) client.
- Special encrypted mobile client called Traveler.
- N/A
- Employee efficency internal communications.