Business Instant Messaging Specialists

Enter your postcode above to view a list of IT Companies who can provide a range of Instant Messaging solutions and services including;

• Provide hosted instant messaging solutions for all size business
• Provide in-house instant messaging server solutions
• Integration and configuration of your instant messaging solution

Business Instant Messaging

Instant messaging offers great potential for improving communication between employees and external partners alike. Instant messaging solutions provide fast real-time communication, improving collaboration, more effective use of time, reduced expenses and faster decision making.

Instant messaging the next ‘big thing’ in business communications

Many businesses would be surprised to learn that a high number of employees are already using instant messaging either for personal or business using consumer grade solutions. This poses both security and compliance risks for all size businesses. Business grade instant messaging solutions offer a secure environment in which to use instant messaging services, removing these risks.

How does Instant Messaging Work?

Instant messaging is essentially the text version of a phone call. At business large and small, more people are using it as a communications tool. Choosing to use text based Instant Messaging IM over phone calls and email, preferring the immediacy and streamlined efficiency in getting real-time information from partners, suppliers and colleagues working remotely. Instant Messaging can be a one-on-one or one-to-many communication tool, making it great for working on projects involving remote users.

Selecting an Instant Messaging (IM) Solution for your business

Once you’ve decided that instant messaging has a place in your business, the biggest and most difficult decision is which instant messaging solution to use. There are several available each offering various features and functionality, the two main options being;

Internal Instant Messaging Solution: A number of software vendors including IBM, Microsoft and Lotus have released full instant messaging solutions (server and client software) for companies seeking to implement in-house IM systems. These are located fully behind the company firewall and generally offer enterprise features such as logging, auditing and centralised management. However this may not always be feasible, particularly for small businesses with limited budget.

Managed Instant Messaging Solution; These are publicly available instant messaging system owned and managed by a third-party. The primary advantage is being inexpensive to implement, so you gain the benefits of Instant Messaging without investing in new hardware or server software.

Instant messaging is said to become the new email, and the benefits can clearly be seen. If you’re interested in learning more about IM solutions use our IT directory to contact specialists in your area to discuss your specific business needs.