Collaborative applications, collaborative software or groupware is application software designed to help people involved in a common task to achieve their goals. One of the earliest definitions of collaborative software is "intentional group processes plus software to support them".

In terms of the level of interaction it allows, collaborative software may be divided into: real-time collaborative editing (RTCE) platforms that allow multiple users to engage in live, simultaneous and reversible editing of a single file, like document collaboration app, and version control (also known as revision control and source control) platforms, which allow separate users to make parallel edits to a file, while preserving every saved edit by every user as multiple files (that are variants of the original file). The use of collaborative software in the work space creates a collaborative working environment (CWE).

There are three main categories of collaboration software based on their functional capabilities. Knowing how does collaboration software work can be gleaned from the tools employed.
Communication. Helps in the exchange of communication between groups. The most common communication tools that are used are systems and applications for email hosting, file sharing, project management and a website or online collaboration applications platform that can be readily accessed. Research findings have shown that file sharing is the most common and needed feature in collaboration software. Example tools: email, voicemail, instant messaging, VoIP or video calls.

Conferencing. Allows real-time collaboration among members. Groupware software tools make possible real-time discussions among project members through a virtual meeting room with a moderator who oversees the sharing of information. These web based collaboration applications meetings are helpful when there are important matters to be decided on by project members who are in various locations. Example tools: video conferencing, IM conferencing, online forums, social media group chats, community boards, application sharing.

Coordination. Assists in group activities, schedule and deliverables. Coordination software solutions are used for complex interdependent tasks to realize a common goal. Typical business collaboration app suits for time management, project management and online proofing so that team members are aware of deadlines, are properly coordinated, and can monitor the status of projects. Example tools: calendars, time trackers, spreadsheets, client portals, alerts and status updates