Social Media Governance

An often encountered barrier to an organization's decision to embrace social media is governance and policy, the rules that determine how members or employees may or may not use the vast array of social media tools. The issue is compounded by the realities of organizational stability and the freedom of expression. Does an organization have the right to totally control what is published on their network, using their computers? Do we as individuals have the inalienable and unfettered right of self-expression?

As with most issues of control and rights, the answer lies somewhere in between yes and no. The presence of reasonable expectations, civil behavior and common sense are required, but are unfortunately and quite often misunderstood or flat out ignored.

The Internet was initially developed as a communications tool between government agencies and institutions of higher learning, certainly two opposite poles concerning control and freedom of expression. Yet, the Internet has grown to become the single greatest communications tool in history. There are those who call for tighter control, as there are those who advocate for little or no control. The truth is, it's neither. It's a balance between the two, and it is our responsibility to strike and maintain that balance as well as we can.

Chris Boudreaux, who has led business transformation initiatives at several Fortune 100 companies, has compiled a list of 82 Social Media policies for your edification. It sure helped mine. Thanks Chris.

Image is a painting by the artist Randy Dillon, "Man Typing on Computer Keyboard". Artist's permission granted.