An Introduction to Chat and Instant Messengers

The growth of the Internet has led to new and faster forms of communication. There are now programs that allow users to communicate in real-time with one or more people while bypassing the need to constantly check e-mail. These instant messaging tools are commonly referred to as IRC (Internet Relay Chat). Some of these programs can be downloaded for free.

Many people leave their instant messenger program open while working on their computers, and when the inspiration hits, pop into discussions. It's as if there's a party going on inside your workstation, and you can choose to join the party or not. It's a party that exists free of cultural signifiers other than words. Sound like an inappropriate use of your work time?

Fear not, the world of IRCs extends beyond the traditional and ill-reputed chat rooms. Instant messengers can be a viable alternative to e-mail in the workplace. Because the exchange of information is so fast, Instant messengers are often a more effective way of getting quick answers to questions, and they can eliminate the need for multiple back-and-forth exchanges of e-mail.

Providing the other party is logged on, communication occurs virtually in real-time. If you are logged on, but away from your desk, remember to use the "I'm Away" function, and your messaging partner won't feel ignored. The main drawback of this type of communication is that in order for the instant messenging to micic an actual conversation, both individuals must be logged on simultaneously and have a comparable typing speed. Of course, it is possible to wonder if it wouldn't be easiest to get up from your desk, leave your office, and walk down the hall to ask your coworker that question.

Popular Free Instant Messengers (also called Instant Messengers)

AOL Instant Messenger :

America Online's Instant Messenger

ICQ :

the original instant messenger; this program also allows users to share files

MSN Instant Messager :

An instant messaging service from Microsoft

Bantu.com :

a universal instant messenger in multiple languages (English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Portuguese); there are different interfaces for each language; You can communicate with others using ICQ, AOL, MSN, and Yahoo message systems; It also includes calendars that can be shared and chat groups

Yahoo!Messanger :

Yahoo's instant messaging service