Howspace FAQ

Background

Why did you change the name to Howspace?

To recognize that we're not only talking about a regular update, but about a step towards a future with new opportunities, we felt like it was time to come up with a more descriptive name. The new name communicates what the platform is all about: enabling new ways of working. It is all about how we collaborate and do what we do. In another words, Howspace sits comfortably between your "why" and "what" (see Simon Sinek).

What are the main differences between REAL and Howspace?

Instead of building Howspace on top of the latest version of REAL, we started from scratch and set the foundations on a new environment. These new technologies allow us to develop new features and meet customer needs much faster than we were able to do before. 

Based on customer feedback, we've developed a bunch of new features and functionalities that allow you to:

• Move widgets between pages
• Send and schedule designated emails with images
• Edit and add content to a page even when the module is hidden
• Create and manage user groups to grant and hide access to different pages, and analyze input based on the most relevant variables
• Edit text in the “edit page layout” mode
• Change the visual design easily
• Use a full-width menu on all screen sizes
• Develop a folder structure with sub-folders
• Tag people in chat and notify the tagged person with an instant email notification
• Access workspace and page-level statistics
• Hide email addresses and personal information from other users

Does Howspace have all the features and functionalities that REAL has?

The very first version of Howspace, released on May 24th 2018, contains all of the features and functionalities you know from REAL with the exception of exam, dialogue, assignment, and sensemaking. These features will be released later this year because we are currently working with some of our customers to make them even better. Howspace contains the most popular functionalities of REAL, and some new, long-awaited features.

When will the remaining features be added to Howspace?

We're currently working with some of our customers to develop new and improved exam, dialogue, assignment, and sensemaking features. These features will become available on Howspace during the summer and fall of 2018.

Making the switch from REAL to Howspace

How can I switch from REAL to Howspace?

You can keep using existing REAL workspaces until the end of 2019. As REAL and Howspace are built on different technologies, it's not possible to transfer existing workspaces between the two platforms.

When you want to open a new workspace on Howspace, just reach out to us and we'll help you get started. Existing pricing and terms apply.

Do I have to start using Howspace already?

Not yet. You can continue creating new REAL workspaces until the end of 2018, and all of the REAL workspaces you have opened can be used until the end of 2019. If, however, you're unsure about how long a new project will last, the safest bet is to open a new workspace on Howspace.

When should I make the switch from REAL to Howspace?

You can open new workspaces in Howspace from May 24, 2018 onwards. However, you also have the opportunity to create new REAL workspaces until the end of 2018. All workspaces in REAL can remain in use until the end of 2019. From the beginning of 2019 onwards, you can only create new workspaces in Howspace.

Can I still open new REAL workspaces? For how long?

Absolutely! You can continue creating new REAL workspaces until the end of 2018, and all of the workspaces opened by then can remain in use until the end of 2019. From the beginning of 2019 onwards, you can only create new workspaces in Howspace.

Will I be able to transfer existing projects from REAL to Howspace?

Unfortunately not. Howspace is built on completely new technology which means that it's not possible to transfer workspaces between the two platforms.

Will I be able to copy workspaces in REAL as templates for new workspaces in Howspace?

Unfortunately not. Howspace is built on completely new technologies and a different environment, which means that it's not possible to copy elements between the two platforms.

How can I transfer my existing contacts from REAL to Howspace?

You can export the user lists in your REAL workspace and import them to your Howspace workspace.

Other practicalities

Will switching to Howspace have an impact on pricing?

Nope. Existing pricing and terms apply.

What's going to happen to the REAL partners’ site workspace?

REAL partners’ site will be open and developed until the Howspace Community site is opened later in 2018.

When will the support for existing REAL workspaces be discontinued?

The support for REAL workspaces will end on 31.12.2019.

Security

How secure is Howspace and will my data be safe?

Data security has been one of the cornerstones of developing Howspace. The platform is extremely secure and you data will be safe. We're currently working on a separate page about security on Howspace, so keep your eyes peeled!

Is Howspace GDPR compliant?

Yes. The requirements for data privacy and the data subject rights stated in GDPR are fulfilled in both Howspace and REAL. Read more about the REAL GDPR here.