Cloud file sharing and back-up is a big business. There's SugarSync, Mozy, and, of course, Dropbox. SugarSync's great for sharing files via Twitter, while Dropbox allows individuals and small groups to sync and share files.
However, these services are focused on individuals and small businesses -- trying to use them to manage files for hundreds of users just isn't practical. That's where LeapFILE comes in.
The company, which just launched at the DEMO Conference today, has the file-sharing and syncing features of Dropbox, but creates a more comprehensive management system that lets IT departments do everything from customize permissions to wipe the contents of stolen computers remotely.
To the end user, it's just a folder on their computer. You use it just like you would any other folder with any other files. But at he same time, others can be collaborating, changing PowerPoints, uploading photos, and sharing with the system. A small business can use it as their file system, eliminating the need for attachments (on a side note, we hope Google Wave kills off the email attachment).
The big selling point of the product though is the security and customization of the system. An IT department can create different security and permission levels. You can create a subfile just for biz dev, another for sales, and yet another for engineering. You can password protect specific areas of your LeapFILE system.
Perhaps best of all for businesses, they can manage files on other computers in emergencies. For example, if a laptop is stolen with confidential information, with LeapFILE, an IT department can just wipe the files off the computer and lock it down. This closes up a major security loophole that has made headlines for years.