Five years: that’s how long corporate e-mail is expected to reign before it loses its monopoly to quicker and more convenient real-time communication tools.
Real-time workplace communication tools should surpass e-mail within five years, said a study by Robert Half Technology of 270 chief information officers (CIOs) in the U.S.
54% of respondents said that e-mail may soon become the new snail mail, as it is replaced by more efficient real-time tools.
13% predicted that real-time tools would be much more popular than e-mail in the next five years, while 38% said it would be the same.
Undeniable benefits
Benefits of the transition to real-time tools:
First is speed. Instant messaging allows conversations at the click of a button, without opening e-mails or waiting for responses. It can also be used by employees in different locations to resolve issues more quickly.
Next, convenience. Many programs include a ton of other features like videoconferencing, microblogging, or document collaboration. Multiple functions in a single interface are more efficient and can reduce the need for meetings.
Finally, the social aspect. Enterprise social networking sites are useful for collaboration and sharing ideas and best practices within the company, not just with immediate colleagues. There is also the potential to foster camaraderie among employees, which is good for teamwork.