Instant messaging (IM) is more useful in the corporate world than you might imagine. To make the most of it, make effective use of collaboration software as one entity, seamlessly using email, IM, voice over IP (VoIP) and discussion groups within a single environment. Also get over the notion that IM is a distraction for workers; it can actually help workers conduct business more efficiently. And finally, manage IM services the way you would manage any other applications, with archiving, authorization, compliance, content inspection, integration capabilities, manageability and security.

Learn more about how to use IM effectively at work:
- read the article at Computing

ALSO:
- read this on the downside of instant messaging