Internet Monitoring

Research Paper on Internet Monitoring

This is a sample research paper on Internet Monitoring in the Workplace:
Introduction
The Internet is an indispensable tool for employees, giving ready access to invaluable information. On the other hand, distractions loom large for employees given unfettered access to the Internet. The reality of the situation is that the Internet can consume a lot of work time by delivering anything a person wants to their desktop. This can lure employees into time-wasting surfing that leaves an organization with traffic congestion, decreased productivity and even potential legal issues.
As a result the demand for monitoring and blocking tools to keep employees focused on their jobs has increased. Many corporations are taking a tough stance and blocking objectionable sites and or monitoring their employees Internet usage. The issue of Internet usage monitoring must be approached with caution as employee animosity could arise from feelings that the company is infringing on their personal rights. Privacy and personal rights in the workplace are some of the most troubling professional and personal issues of our time. The law does not offer much guidance in this arena and companies must look toward ethical analysis as a guide to decision making. The issue of monitoring employee’s Internet access continues to generate legal disputes and case laws continue to evolve. One point that is clear is that businesses’ have an interest in monitoring Internet access to reduce the risk from reduced productivity, legal liability, and confidential data loss.
Employee Misuse of Internet
According to a report by Elron Software about $1.05 billion, or 30% of the 3.5 billion corporations spend each year on Internet access is wasted on recreational surfing. It seems that access to the Internet has replaced the water cooler as the gathering spot of choice for employees. The pitfalls of a totally wired workforce are starting to become apparent to many... [continues]

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