Brian’s Weblog

I am having a difficult time with this one on a number of levels. First off, since my institution has blocked Facebook and MySpace, I am having challenges with even creating an account. I will have one by the end of the weekend as I have borrowed a laptop with wireless capabilities and will head over to Starbucks Saturday morning to take advantage of their free wireless. The problem is that once I return the laptop, I will not be returning to edit/read anything on Facebook.
I will not be utilizing this sort of Web 2.0 application at my workplace. I think that is because as an institution that provided all employees with computer access (as opposed to a public library or college where patrons have their own laptops, Iphones, etc), we have built in communication abilities. For example: as all employees are on the master email list, I can email anyone in the institution; as all employees are in the phone directory, I can look up a number and make a call, prepared to leave a voice message.
We do not have the inherent challenges of “user anonymity” that may exist in a more public setting.
Additionally, with HIPPA privacy laws smacking us in the face all the time, my fellow employees (and myself) may feel reluctant to share much information on Facebook or MySpace for anyone to see.