At first glance, Google + has some upsides and downsides. But doesn't every platform out there? I must confess right off the bat that I am a Google fan-I use Chrome, Reader, Docs, Android, Calendar, and most of Google's toolbox. So for me, the new + is a winner. But I don't see it as a replacement for anything I'm currently using, certainly not Facebook or Twitter. Only downside so far-where is the integration with Reader? So, how's about a 10,000-foot view?

I am a time curmudgeon. I don't like doubling on tasks. So, I am searching for a way to make Google+ a tool that adds functionality to my workday and depth to my work. I think I am finding it in collaboration.

I love to collaborate in real-time. That's why I am a Twitter fan. What I like about Google+ is the ability to collaborate, chat-room style, on the fly. It's a similar function to LinkedIn groups, but without all the joining and being approved to follow, etc. I also like the fact that you can create your own circles and search and join topic discussions in the Sparks feature. I like the breadth of people there. It's snappier than Quora and definitely richer than Twitter for a discussion function. I like the idea of building circles around affinities and tasks. Much easier than the process involved in Facebook groups. I also love the fact that collaboration in real-time will no longer clog up my Twitter feed.

Sure there are trolls there. I disabled the email function for notifications-learned the hard way. I am watching what Chris Brogan and others are doing with the platform to learn some early best practices. Brogan is creative, and I don't see him as a time waster. My kind of guy.

Dive in and try it out. I am constantly trying out new tools and won't stick around if it doesn't hit on my important tool criteria: don't double tasks, save time in the long run, and open new information doors that add value. Will it catch on? Time will tell.

Have you tried it-what's your first take?