Instant messaging in the workplace

When I worked at Chase this summer in downtown Indianapolis I was introduce to a new technology being implemented in the workplace: Same time. This technology is very similar to AIM, or MSN instant messenger, but is used solely to contact co-workers through your computer without leaving your desk and to have a conversation without actually speaking.

The chatter was replaced by tapping on keyboards often followed by a sporadic, out-of-place laugh. Instant messaging is already taking over the office environment.

Companies are seeing the benefit of this, rolling out enterprise solutions to improve communication, internal and with suppliers, vendors and clients.

Of all those millions of people who use IM in the workplace, 40% are doing so without the authorisation or knowledge of their IT department.

This unmonitored IM access creates huge problems for companies.

• Excessive personal use is a sure fire way to drive down productivity
• Sensitive and confidential company information can be broadcast with no safeguards
• The standard policies around appropriate content in the workplace are not imposed
• IT security protocols are circumvented allowing the network to be exposed to malware
• In regulated companies, compliance rules and procedures are bypassed and ignored

IM will be implemented in every business, of that there is no doubt. In order to be effective companies will need to be ahead of the curve, implementing policies and solutions which best suit their needs and are aligned to their goals.