This extraordinarily handy utility by BusyMac installs as a preference pane and allows you to sync the calendars of all of the Macs on a network as well as any designated Google calendars. Simply put, it just works. Permissions can be set for read only or both read/write privileges with or without passwords. The integration of Google calendars allows calendars to be edited and synchronized on work computers as well as when away from the local network. Any changes made to iCal while away from the network will be synchronized once the computer returns. Mac OSX 10.4 (Tiger) or 10.5 (Leopard) is required. Leopard is required for the advanced SSL publishing option.

I tested this using my Google account as well as separate iCal accounts on my two home Mac computers over the local network which synced within moments. The same result was achieved when my laptop calendar was edited off-site and then brought back into the network. The calendars are maintained as distinct identities in the sidebar so that if there are two separate persons coordinating events, their calendars do not simply get mushed into each other. For example, on my MacPro, I am subscribed to a published calendar called “Dizzle Laptop,” and on my laptop I am subscribed to all of the published calendars from my MacPro. If I try to add or rename a calendar on either machine to one that already exists on the published network, the command is refused so that there is no naming confusion. If calendars with identical names are attempted to be published, a conflict resolution screen will appear. BusySync also has options to reset sync history (if for some reason the synchronization stopped), reset BusySync (which will delete the BusySync database and subscriptions leaving all information in owned calendars intact), and restore iCal from backup (BusySync keeps ten backups of the host iCal database.) All of these features worked without a hitch for me under multiple contrived test scenarios.

In short, this is a very simple-to-use program that fills a specific niche need and does so flawlessly.

There is a video tutorial on the developer’s site which thoroughly walks through the installation and operation process as well as a detailed online user’s guide. A fully functional 30-day trial is offered. The price point is $19.95 until May 1, 2008. The regular price is $25 per license with discounts offered for 5 or more licenses. Each Macintosh on the network needs to have its own license and installation in order for it to participate in the synchronization cloud.

Pros: Simplicity and elegance of use. In the product testing, there were no errors or glitches encountered. This product would work well for all users from the unsophisticated to the advanced. Adds wonderful integration and functionality for scheduling amongst multiple locations and users.

Cons: Cost. $25 per computer can easily get expensive in an Apple-loving household.

Giveaway: 3 Free licenses for one person running two to three Macintosh computers. (Giveaway now over, winner is Davinian!)

Please note that the two licenses I used for review purposes were given to me gratis from the developer.