Advantages of Employee Internet Monitoring in the Workplace

Advantages of Employee Internet Monitoring in the Workplace

Posted by Dallas IT Solutions at *

by Todd Pheifer

The Internet has changed how everything is done in modern society. Some of this change is obviously positive, but with any change comes the possibility that things could get abused. Just about every industry makes use of the Internet in one way or another whether it is for research, communication, or organizational infrastructure. Employees in many different firms are on the Internet throughout the day. The challenge for organizations lies in regulating this usage. As with any other medium, not all Internet usage is for professional reasons. Therefore, some companies have taken the step of monitoring the Internet usage of their employees. Here are a few advantages to this practice.

You Are at Work

Ideally, when companies monitor their employee’s Internet usage, it sends a message that the organization expects people to be productive with the tools that they have been given. This is the same principle that applies to the use of the phone, the copy machine, the fax machine, and various office supplies. Most companies understand that their employees do not spend every moment of the day focused on the work at hand. A few personal phone calls and a bit of idle surfing on the Internet may not destroy the organization. However, some companies feel it is best to set a tone and remind their employees that they are not on their own time.

Personal Responsibility

Another benefit to Internet monitoring is that it sends a message to the employees that certain policies will be followed and enforced. Some companies have written policies about Internet usage in terms of which sites employees should not be visiting during company time. However, without a monitoring system in place the employee may feel like they are safe to do whatever they want as long as they quickly close their browser before the boss walks in. If an employee feels like they are being monitored they may be less prone to go to certain sites in the first place.

Liability

Finally, an Internet monitoring practice reminds the employee that they may be liable for certain things that happen on the Internet during business hours. In addition, it conveys a sense that the company may be at risk if certain employees visit sites that are not connected to the business of the organization. Ultimately, an Internet monitoring policy sends a strong message that the employer takes employee behavior seriously. What companies have to keep in mind is that monitoring employees can create a negative environment where people do not feel trusted. Negative reinforcement may set a tone, but in the long run it may simply cause the employee to avoid the reinforcement rather than engage in behavior that is positive for the workplace.

For more information on employee internet monitoring, call Tech Central at 972.996.6650