How can we communicate with our partners?
Chat or Instant Messenger (IM) |
Chat programs allow people to communicate in real time, with each sender typing in the text they are ‘speaking’. The system of more than two people communicating in this way is often called a chatroom.
Pros |
Cons |
Beware |
Software is generally free |
Need to be on the same software as your other contacts |
May need to run more than one program, or a program like Trillian that enables connection to multiple networks at once |
Users can see who else is online and available to chat |
Can be a security risk |
Systems which allow people to remain anonymous. Anonymity can lead to irresponsible use |
Transcripts of conversations can be saved |
Can be a distraction |
Needs to be used to be useful and requires marketing and pro-active interventions for it work. |
Some of the best known packages are:
In addition, some extranet or intranet services may offer a chat program as part of their services.
Further reading: Wikipedia