Money talks. And a surprising number of workers worldwide would use their own to engage in social networking to do their jobs better and faster.
Microsoft on Tuesday released a study that shows worker appetite for social tools is increasing -- even if it means spending their own money. The survey of workers in 32 countries found nearly a third would pay for social tools out of their own pocket. Almost half say that social tools at work help increase their productivity, but more than 30 percent of companies underestimate the value of these tools and often restrict their use.
“Employees are already bringing their own devices into their workplaces, but now they are increasingly bringing their own services as well,” said Charlene Li, founder and analyst at Altimeter Group, a firm that studies social media and other technology trends, in the press release. “Employees expect to work differently, with tools that feel more modern and connected, but are also reflective of how they interact in their personal lives. Enterprise social represents a new way to work, and organizations embracing these tools are improving collaboration, speeding customer responses and creating competitive advantages.”
The survey kicks off an in-depth look at social technology in the enterprise. Head over to the Microsoft News Center to learn more about the survey results, read a feature story on how enterprise social technology is making the workplace flat, and get tips on how to start using social in the office.
Jake Siegel
Microsoft News Center Staff