What are Box apps?
- Andrea Mocko
- Ken Schreihofer
- Vladimir Plotkin
Box apps allow you to use files stored in Box with other applications and services across the web.
An overview of the Apps currently available can be found here.
*The page linked above is hosted by Box.com.
Not all apps compatible with Box support single-sign-on, and therefore may not be compatible with Box at UMBC.
How do I add an App to my account?
Navigate to the 'Apps' page on the left sidebar. Once you find the service you would like to add, click the 'Add ' button. A pop-up will ask you to confirm; click 'PROCEED', and the application will be added (Note: you may be taken to a 3rd party site to download some apps). Some applications, like Box Sync, Box Edit, SimpleShare, will require an installation of the application on a user's computer. You should be directed through the install after clicking Add.
Please note that a lot of Box applications are from third-party vendors not affiliated with Box and would require to be approved using Software Review process before they can be used.
Once I've added an application, how do I use it to work with one of my files?
To use an Application, click on the little button with downward arrow. All of the applications you have added that are compatible with this specific file type will appear in the "More Actions" sub-menu. Select the application you would like to use and click on it. A pop-up window will appear, asking for details about the file and application you are accessing. Enter the appropriate information and click 'OK', and you will be taken to the application's site. With certain third party applications you may need to create an account for that application. You should be lead through creating an account with that application the first time you access that application from within Box.
Some application will not have any visible changes in Box interface but they will allow to access Box with the app or interfaces.
Will these applications affect my files?
If you make changes to your files using one of these applications, you can choose whether your edited version will be saved as a new file in your Box or overwrite your existing file. This choice is made in the pop-up window that appears when you select the application you would like to use with a particular file. (Note: Some applications, such as document editing, will not give you this option). When you are not actively using them, the applications will not access or affect your files in any way.