Top 5 key areas: Why enterprises are deploying Instant messenger(IM)

February 9th, 2007 by ShajiFiroz

Everyone in the enterprise knows that Instant messaging or IM is a form of real-time communication between two or more people based on typed text. But less people in the corporate realize key benefits of enterprises of using IM and even lesser people follow the IM etiquette. My attempt is to jot down at least few points of IM usage in enterprise perspective.Below are few key points where enterprise thinks its key benefits of implementing IM in the organization.

1. To activate rapid communication & collaboration
   • systems requirements are very minimum to implement. It does not require big network bandwidth
   • So majority of the users can be enabled without impacting the existing network infrastructure no matter where they are
2. Reduce the telecoms bills
   • Great benefit, you can easily gauge the telecoms savings by comparing the pre-IM and Post-IM usage.
3. Cost effective alternative for audio conferencing
4. Helps remote staff get connected
5. Provide “presence’ services
   • it will help you see the people on-line who are not in your list of IM. For example, if you receive an email with large distribution list and suddenly you have a question on that mail broadcast. With the “presence” enabled in the outlook, you can point the mouse over to the distribution list and then you will be able to see who is online. Target the one whom you would like to engage in an IM conversation.

However, there are some IM etiquette enterprises require its users to comply. I have listed few below:

1. IM is ideal and it works better for quick questions. But if you have a complex message to convey, it is suggested that you drop an email and call them.
2. Make short and precise - Meaning, keep your IM messages simple words and be understood. The best is no more than two sentences. You can reserve longer conversations for your conference calls or face-to-face meetings.
3. While you presenting with a power point slides, make sure you logged out from IM. Otherwise, it will display the IM messages to those who see your PowerPoint slides. Also, it distracts and sometimes disturb the audience.
4. IM is not a medium to convey shocking or major official announcement. So be kind enough!
5. IM is not a medium to propose and negotiate a contract and assign jobs as it should be in writings and through some tools respectively.

I conclude this blog posting with an article from Maurene about “Instant Messaging: Instant Exploitations”

Topics: Uncategorized, Unified Messaging, Collaboration   
Tags: IM, Instant Messaging