Recap and IM Action Plan

1. Instant messaging brings to the workplace new legal and regulatory issues, new problems with security and technology, and new challenges for management, such as determining what effect IM has on employee productivity.

2. Think of IM as turbocharged e-mail. Like e-mail, it is a form of written communication that must be managed as a business record. The only difference between IM and e-mail is speed.

3. Management must strive not to be left behind by tech-savvy employees, some of whom have been using IM since their teen years.

4. Responsible employers are obligated to take control of workplace IM. Establish written rules and policies. Conduct employee training. Adhere to regulatory and legal requirements. Manage IM use with technology tools controlled by your IT department.

5. Seek the advice of competent legal, IT, records management, and compliance experts before implementing your organization’s IM system, rules, policies, and procedures.