Back to School Week: Getting Cozi

Are you getting Cozi? Cozi is the latest attempt to manage family schedule madness–an online calendar-list manager-message minder-family scrapbook.

As the school year begins and the family calendar kicks into overdrive, Cozi may be the last, best hope for keeping track of it all. Unlike the time-tested family wall calendar, Cozi goes with you via the Web so it is accessible wherever you are.

The site, which is free but with advertiser content, offers two versions: web and PC based. Mac users can access the web version with Mozilla Firefox 2.0 or later, or Internet Explorer 7.0 or later.

From the site you can see a family calendar with each members information color-coded. The calendar can be printed and synced with Microsoft Outlook via phone or computer to keep everyone in the loop. Business appointments that affect the family or family outings that need to be noted for work can be synced to mom and dad’s Outlook calendars.

Also, you can manage lists such as groceries, birthdays, gifts, or anything else you can come up with. With Cozi you can then send the list to your phone or even call its toll free 1-888-808-COZI number and have the list read to you. As the site says, “never be caught without your grocery list again!”

Other features include a family journal interface (kind of like a “light” blog) that is currently only accessible by the family, but later versions will make it available to other invited guests. Also, the site has a photo screensaver feature that turns your computer into a photo gallery/calendar update when it is standing by.

The Betty Crocker edition (I can’t figure out if they actually are behind the site or just a sponsor) provides a quick search field for recipes to help plan dinner as well.

In all, this looks like a wonderful option for busy families–especially those with older kids and teens who can update their own calendars and use this to stay in touch. You can also use the site to easily send text messages to family members reminding them of events or to-dos (like “Dad–pick up milk”). Of course, standard messaging rates apply.

Here are other ways Cozi can help you stay on top of life.Take a tour! Let me know how it works for you.