Most IT directors and managers understand the basics of a corporate messenger and the fundamental functions it should handle. But what about the rest of the world? Lots of small to medium businesses can’t afford a pro to help with day-to-day decisions. So here’s a run down of the basic corporate messenger features you should be looking for when you choose an enterprise instant messenger.
1. Security
Before anything else, security should be your #1 priority with a corporate messenger. No matter how functional or pretty the IM client is, if it can’t keep your valuable information safe then it has no right being on your list.
When looking for security, be sure you to check whethor or not the corporate messenger can handle encrypted chats AND file transfers. Also be sure that the public has zero access to your employees as this will help in productivity as well as prevent accidental loss of valuable information to imposters.
2. Tools
What’s a good corporate messenger if it can’t handle the basic chatting and file sharing functions? Not much. Make sure your corporate messenger of choice has these basics, but look for more. Brosix has screen sharing, co-browsing, video chatting and conferencing, and even voice chatting, plus a whole lot more.
3. Support
This one tends to get ingnored, but support for your corporate messenger is critical. Who do you call if the system goes down? If you go with a company that is too big, and you don’t spend enough with them, you might get stuck on hold for extended periods of time. Look a smaller development firms who will value your business.
4. Cost
Of course, cost is important with a corporate messenger. No, these aren’t free and for good reason. You get a LOT of protection and support when you pay for it. The key is to know your costs on the front end so you don’t get surprised later.