How to make a digital whiteboard
A digital whiteboard is an online, interactive tool that lets you and others write and draw just like you would on a traditional whiteboard. It offers a multitude of advantages over whiteboards of the tangible variety, including the ability to collaborate with multiple participants remotely, record sessions for future reference, and add imagery and documentation to your boards. They’re also accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, making hybrid and remote work far more seamless and organized. If you’re wondering how to make a digital whiteboard, there are several options available to you. Though it depends on the precise functionalities you’re after, here are some of the best ways to create a digital whiteboard
Try an Online Whiteboard Tool
There is a wide range of digital whiteboard tools available online, offering different features at varying price points. For example, Miro (which offers a free version) is an excellent option for those wishing to collaborate on complex projects, featuring easy multimedia integration, customizable templates, and a plethora of stylish widgets. Google Jamboard is a strong choice for those favoring the Google ecosystem, while Microsoft Whiteboard is a great option for those already entrenched in Microsoft 365. For those who need a more tactile experience, Astropad Studios’ Luna Display could be a good choice, albeit a costly one. It wirelessly mirrors your iPad to your computer, allowing you to physically draw on your iPad while benefiting from your computer’s processing power and bandwidth. Most online whiteboard tools offer a free trial or a free version, so it’s best to test a few to see which one fits your need the best.
Use a Virtual Meeting Tool
Virtual meeting tools like Zoom offer a whiteboard function that you can use with others for real-time collaboration. To share your screen and use the whiteboard function, click the “Share” button at the bottom of your Zoom window and select “Whiteboard” to initiate a new board. You can then choose between the following options:
- Annotate – Allows you to write text and draw freely on the board
- Whiteboard – Selection of backgrounds to choose from
- Markup – Provides a selection of tools and colors to draw and annotate over your shared screen
Consider a Video Conferencing Hardware Upgrade
Some video conferencing hardware, like SparkMaker, enable multi-user, real-time whiteboard drawing capabilities. These let you draw and write just as you would on a traditional whiteboard, but with the added bonus of being accessible remotely through video conferencing links. These can be excellent options for those who prefer a more “natural” whiteboard experience but come at a higher cost than most online whiteboard tools or virtual meeting additions.
Try a Online Whiteboard Software
Online whiteboard software like AWW App, Limnu, and Explain Everything are digital whiteboard alternatives that provide ample space for you to sketch out your ideas. Most are desktop apps, but they also often come with companion apps for mobile devices. These whiteboards often offer features like:
- Handwriting and stylus support
- Shape recognition and manipulation
- Adding images and other documents
- Collaboration in real-time
- Drawing guides and grids for improved layout
Consider Your Own Website or Blog
If you have a website or blog and are looking for a straightforward way to create a digital whiteboard, you could always just make a whiteboard graphic and add it to your website. There are online graphic designers that feature a whiteboard background and virtual pen for writing. You can save your work as you go and even download a copy for yourself. Once it’s been saved, you can easily share the URL with others and even make the graphic accessible with a password. Though it lacks the real-time functionality of most digital whiteboards, it’s an uncomplicated, free way to achieve similar results.
