The New Water Cooler

I read some articles over the past week about the new water cooler. Instead of one that can be found in homes and offices, like the Primo water cooler, it was a virtual water cooler called Facebook or Twitter. The thought is that information shared in these mediums is similar to the information that you share with the others around a physical water cooler and it is the next generation.

I must admit, I am a loyal Facebook user, but haven't completely caught onto the Twitter phenomenon. While these mediums do provide a great service, I still like the personal social aspect of hanging out with my colleagues at the "physical" water cooler talking. While this might seem old-fashioned to some (just like the fact I read newspapers), I believe there is a great benefit to an organization when people walk around and actually talk to their colleagues and not just send them emails. Things don't get lost in translation. Feelings don't get hurt. People get to know each other and actually care about one another. Companies are more profitable because of the good work environment.

So, don't always rely on your virtual water cooler, but use the real one as well.