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This growth has brought a range of benefits to both individuals and companies, including better communication between coworkers and increased team productivity. In recent years, IM has expanded to include a variety of communication features, not just for personal use, but for corporate environments, too. In some cases, access to the network can be controlled by a network administrator. Often, users access the platform by downloading the client’s application to their device of choice and registering with their phone number. While most people view IM as a vehicle for sending direct messages, nowadays most instant messaging apps employ centralized servers which facilitate the delivery of messages between users. Instant messaging software has long been known for its direct peer-to-peer connections, pioneered by the now-defunct AOL Instant Messenger (AIM).ĪIM, and other similar IM programs, initially allowed two ‘contacts’ to directly send and receive text-based messages, provided both users were online, logged on with the client, and had access to each other’s unique screen names. Instant messaging, also known as IM, is an online communication method used to connect two or more people in real time for back-and-forth conversation. Consider Whether IM Maximizes or Hinders the Interaction Avoid Free Instant Messaging Services in the Workplace
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