What is instant messaging? What are its pros and cons? -

What is instant messaging? (IM) – Instant messaging is popular in the form of ‘messaging apps’ usually on mobile devices. Instant messaging systems tend to facilitate connections between specified known users (often using a contact list also known as a “buddy list” or “friend list”). Depending on the IM protocol, the technical architecture can be peer-to-peer (direct point-to-point transmission) or client- server (an Instant message service center messages from the sender to the communication device). IM technology is a type of online chat that offers real-time text transmission over the internet. A LAN messenger operates in a similar way over a local area network. Short messages are typically transmitted between two parties, when each user chooses to complete a thought and select “send”. Some IM applications can use push technology to provide real-time text, which transmits messages character by character, as they are composed. More advanced instant messaging can add file transfer, clickable hyperlinks, Voice over IP, or video chat.

Business uses of instant messaging can be given as under: Instant messaging has proven to be similar to personal computers, email and the World Wide Web, in that its adoption for use as a business communications medium was driven primarily by individual employees using consumer software at work.

Tens of millions of the consumer IM accounts in use are being used for business purposes by employees.

The adoption of IM across corporate networks outside of the control of IT organizations creates risks and liabilities for companies who do not effectively manage and support IM use. Companies implement specialized IM archiving and security products and services to mitigate these risks and provide safe, secure, productive instant messaging abilities to their employees. IM is increasingly becoming a feature of enterprise software.

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Advantages of Instant Messaging in Business Communication

Instant messaging is almost as instantaneous as telephone conversations and features the record keeping capability of email messaging. It makes communication more convenient and accessible. Following are the advantages to this vital office communication software:

1. Instant Messaging aids in Connecting Staff Members who are in Off-site Location:

This office communication software continues to provide seamless communication between those on the field and in the office. Colleagues, managers and staff members can continue communicate and feel connected.

2. Group Communicate

It allows for both private messaging and

3. Supporting and Implementing Other Forms of group chats. Communication

Instant messaging is particularly useful to complement and support another form of communication.

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4. Other Advantages

Following are also some advantages of instant messaging:

Instant messaging saves on space and overhead costs.
Mangers, team members and colleagues are more likely to be engaged in the work the do.
Instant messaging communication software promotes constant, more informal and friendlier communication, which can result in more productivity.
Now, it is unusual for business organizations to have both onshore and offshore employees. Instant messaging breaks barriers by enabling work staff either onshore or offshore to understand each other much better.
Communication done through instant messaging office communication software is more likely more understandable the verbal communication.

Disadvantages of Instant Messaging for Business Communication:

These are as under:

1. Productivity Issue

Some cohorts of employees spend hours using instant messenger, gossiping or generally wasting time.

2. Security Issue

Most instant messaging platforms are not secure. Some platforms can be hacked by external parties.

3. Other Disadvantages

Some other disadvantages of instant messaging are as under:

Ineffective tool for mass communication,
Problematic system for archiving,
Cannot be controlled by management.