According to America Online’s most recent survey, 26 percent of its users use IM at work. Of that 26 percent, 58 percent use IM to communicate with colleagues, and 49 percent use it to get answers and make business decisions.1
IM allows users to transfer files and images, which can be dangerous. IM was originally designed for entertainment purposes. The software did not take into account the possible transfer of sensitive data such as electronic personal health information.
IM software has a very basic technology structure, which creates many security issues.
Managing records of IM chats is tricky and exists in a gray area legally. Are IM chats part of daily business records and thus the patient’s record? Depending on the content of the discussion, certain messages may need to be kept. Activity that contains electronic personal health information or involves a patient and that’s passed between users should be logged and audited.
The reality for many organizations is that IM is already in use, regardless of the threats involved
To IM or not to IM, that is the question. IM has its advantages and disadvantages. Do the risks outweigh the benefits or do the benefits outweigh the risks? Every organization should carefully consider both when deciding whether or not to use IM.
This is an interesting article about the pros and cons of IM's in the health care industry. It's funny how everything seems to come back to legal issues these days.
This site covers some pros and cons of a video resume. While it can be too revealing too fast, a well produced video with effective communication can make a candidate stand out.
NPR does a great job at listing the benefits of using a video resumes as opposed to on paper. The big understanding is that video resumes stand out and can let the employer know just who you are.