Even More on Instant Messaging at Work
Yet another article regarding the use of instant messaging, or IM, at work. The Detroit Free Press notes the recent proliferation of IM use in the workplace and the opportunities for increased productivity as a result. However, as previously noted, it's not without it's pitfalls. With over 25 million IM users at work, the article cites a survey by the ePolicy Institute which asserts that... "58 percent of workplace IM users engage in personal conversations. Sixteen percent use it to transmit gossip, rumors and jokes, and 6 percent send pornography. " Further,
" Employees chat, share confidential files, swap dirty jokes and catch computer viruses over AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo, MSN Messenger and IRC. They do it without asking permission. They do it without their employer's knowledge. And therein lies the problem"
To counter the problems associated with IM at work, the article suggests:
A more feasible solution is to install "gateway management" programs, such as those from IMlogic and Akonix Systems Inc. These programs basically turn free IM software into corporate-appropriate software by putting IT departments in total control.
IM is not going to go away. My suggestion has always been to develop a comprehensive policy encompassing all forms of electronic communication - email, IM, the internet, voice mail, telephone, and what ever else may come along.
