Comment Articles

IM, I said

Jesse Berst AnchorDesk

Published: 14 Feb 2000 16:24 GMT

However, if used properly, instant messaging can play a vital role in office communications. Instant messaging (IM) refers to short, text notes sent instantaneously from one computer to another over the Internet. By creating "Buddy Lists," you can see when friends or co-workers are online and available to IM.

A hybrid of chat and email, if you will. IM is poised to become the backbone for a huge range of new services on various platforms, including cell phones and PDAs. AOL alone sends 600 million instant messages a day (compared with a 110 million emails). The IM revolution is slowly creeping into the workplace. A recent ComputerWorld survey revealed 17% of U.S. corporations use instant messaging. Ferris Research predicts two-thirds of corporate email users will use IM regularly in five years. To be sure, the category still has its problems. Most notably, the number one IM provider, AOL, blocks out other messengers, making it hard to create a service that can reach anyone, anywhere. But you don't have to wait out this standards fight. Use IM now for:

Communicating with clients on the fly: For example, PlexxNet's Patient LogPad lets patients communicate instantly with their doctors. The device is in trials right now, but look for others to follow its lead.

Enhanced customer service: Several companies offer IM-based online help.

Passing Notes: As IM moves to cell phones and wireless handhelds, it will become the ultimate way to pass notes. For instance, quickly (and subtly) send your co-worker a reminder to bring up a specific point, figure, etc.

Virtual Office: IM started as a way to track which "buddies" were online. Today, some companies use it to assemble virtual teams from locations around the globe. Now click over to Page 2 to learn how you can use IM to set up your own virtual office.