Instant Messaging
From Wikipedia: Instant messaging (IM) is a form of real-time communication
between two or more people based on typed text. The text is conveyed via devices
connected over a network such as the Internet.
The "closest resource" doctrine applies when utilizing instant messaging:
1. Student Affairs Resources
Not available.
2. University Resources
The university operates an IM service which is available to all members of
the campus community. It also is interoperable with other networks that utilize
the Jabber protocol. Both application and web-based access for
students, faculty, and staff are provided, so the service is easily accessible to
everyone.
"Conference" functionality is available, allowing many students to share in a
single conversation.
The system also supports customer service functionality, where one or more
"helper" members can be available online to answer incoming requests. The
requests can be initiated through software or a website.
3. Partner Resources
Google Talk is not yet an officially supported service.
4. Other Resources
Not required or permitted.
Although staff are free to establish personal accounts on other IM
networks such as AOL, Yahoo, or MSN and interact with students, they are not
permitted to establish official university identities.