Spark is a free, open source IM client with a full complement of features and even plugin support. Developed by Jive Software, the program is Java based so any system that supports it will be able to run this application. Among the application’s many features are voice calling, group chat, file transfers and more.
The program is easy to set up, and basically all you need to do is write your password, username and the server you want to connect to. The interface is pretty basic but you can customize some of the settings to suit your preferences. In addition, Spark also has support for emoticons and avatars and you can also define the colors. There really are a number of settings that you can change here, much more so than other IM clients.
The conversation window is similar to those in some IM clients so if you have used one before, the learning curve should be easy. Spark has also added some useful options like letting you view logs, taking a screenshot, send files to another user and view information about the person you are chatting with.
Spark even lets you invite other users for a conference. The Buzz tool will alert a person so they know you want to chat with them, and there is also a spell checker.
Spark is aimed primarily at organizations and businesses but that doesn’t mean casual users cannot use it for chatting. If you are tired of the usual messengers found on the Internet you may want to give this a try.
Related Links:
Spark Official Website