TY - GEN
T1 - The impact of instant messaging in the workplace
AU - Ou, Carol X.J.
AU - Davison, Robert M.
PY - 2010
Y1 - 2010
N2 - The use of instant messaging (IM) technology at work is controversial, due to the interruptions it may cause and the difficulties associated with quantifying its benefits. In this study, we investigate the use and impact of IM tools in the workplace. Based on the communication performance theories and social network theory, we propose that the use of IM will result in work disturbance, improved communication quality and the establishment of trust between colleagues. These mediating variables will in turn enhance group outcomes. Our research model is validated by a survey of 253 working professionals. The data suggests IM can significantly contribute to communication performance in the workplace, where the benefits overwhelm the work interruption caused. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
AB - The use of instant messaging (IM) technology at work is controversial, due to the interruptions it may cause and the difficulties associated with quantifying its benefits. In this study, we investigate the use and impact of IM tools in the workplace. Based on the communication performance theories and social network theory, we propose that the use of IM will result in work disturbance, improved communication quality and the establishment of trust between colleagues. These mediating variables will in turn enhance group outcomes. Our research model is validated by a survey of 253 working professionals. The data suggests IM can significantly contribute to communication performance in the workplace, where the benefits overwhelm the work interruption caused. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
KW - Communication Performance
KW - Communication Quality
KW - Group Outcomes
KW - Instant Messaging (IM)
KW - Trust
KW - Work Interruption
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=84870365478&partnerID=8YFLogxK
UR - https://www.scopus.com/record/pubmetrics.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84870365478&origin=recordpage
M3 - RGC 32 - Refereed conference paper (with host publication)
SN - 9781617389528
VL - 5
SP - 3782
EP - 3792
BT - 16th Americas Conference on Information Systems 2010, AMCIS 2010
T2 - 16th Americas Conference on Information Systems (AMCIS 2010)
Y2 - 12 August 2010 through 15 August 2010
ER -