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SMB Networks / Managing Remote Users /

Before you bring in instant messaging...

Introducing instant messaging tools not only affects teleworkers and managers, but also your firm's IT department. Depending on your role, consider these points:

  • Teleworkers: Who's on your buddy list, and who needs to be there? Have you told your peers which contact points you prefer, whether instant messaging is more effective than voice mail, for example? Communicate preference.

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  • Managers: How simple will the instant messaging application be for the team to learn and implement? Are rules in place to limit idle chat - without affecting team camaraderie? Lay it all out.

  • Network executives: Are consumer services such as AOL Instant Messenger, MSN Messenger and Yahoo Messenger already threatening network security and creating a mess of multiple instant messaging applications? If you switch everyone over to a centrally managed business-grade service, what's the learning curve? Is the system set up to capture and archive chats? Who has access to those files?

    - Jeff Zbar

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