Managers' perceptions of social software use in the workplace: identifying the benefits of social software and emerging patterns of its use

Abstract

Adoption and use of social software within the organization is an area of interest for both industry and academia. Yet, studies examining how managers use these technologies and adapt them in their daily practice are very few. In this study, we interview selected managers, proficient with the use of such applications within the workplace. We explore their perspectives on the benefits of social software, and ways in which they use these tools within the workplace. Through in-depth analysis of semi-structured interviews, we identify information, communication, and organization benefits as the major benefits. Further, we identify emerging patterns in the social software behavior within the workplace such as managing of self-image, spatial, device, and temporal patterns in use.