Go slowly on social networking

Social networking may be the hottest item to come down the pike in a while. But a new study by Gartner warns businesses about getting caught up in the hype. The caution from the research company is very clear. Before a company invests in social network tools or develops a social networking operation, Gartner advises IT executives to make sure that intellectual property is protected and to determine if employees would prefer using existing external networks such as Facebook and MySpace.

It's a decision that ultimately rests with the CIO to make sure a social network is operated properly. And it also concerns the HR department, which should decide the extent to which employees can social network on the job instead of, say, working. The Gartner report also says that social networking may not be mature enough to warrant an investment. And there is no evidence yet that it is as effective as instant messaging or other existing technologies that can link workers in one business together.

For more on this office technology:
- See this Silicon.com Article