SMS and instant messaging advantages

In writing my last post that described activities that virtual teams can use to help communicate and develop their online communities, I omitted two very important tools, instant messaging and Short Message Service (SMS) or text messaging.

I overlooked these important tools because I use these tools all the time and I simply don't think about not using them. I use them like some people use a phone.

Instant messaging and text messaging are not just for kids.

Instant messaging is a way to:

• know if your colleagues are in the office.
• communicate what you are doing (examples, "I'm in a meeting" or "I'm at lunch").
• start (and end) impromptu discussions.
• find out answers to quick questions without interrupting ongoing office questions.

We often use instant messaging in our office when we are on support calls with clients and we need supporting information from our colleagues.

• keep up with your kids.

When they arrive home from school, you can know when they are online and they could IM you.

Text messaging is a way to:

• communicate in a pinch.
• communicate when phone use is disruptive.
• communicate when you don't know how disruptive your communication maybe to the recipient.
• communicate when asynchronous messages are preferred.
• communicate when cellphones don't work well (i.e., in emergency situations).

Because the way data messages are sent, text messages have better success in getting through when circuits are overloaded.