This document discusses how BT, a large UK telecommunications company, uses social media to make work processes more efficient. It describes BT's intranet which over 140,000 employees use for information, applications, and collaboration. The document outlines how BT embraces key principles of social media technology through internal tools like its wiki (BTpedia), blogs, podcasts, and social networks. It provides guidelines for using social media at BT, including governance, and discusses overcoming barriers to adoption. Examples are given of how social media supports knowledge sharing and collaboration across the large organization.
Web 2.0 and all that it has to offer is leading the BT Intranet to a new phase in its evolution
Why is Social media important?
Because it is closely linked to social behaviour. If the Intranet is about enabling people to be more effective, then it should also complement social behaviour – people should feel comfortable using it.
All the objectives of the original project to use Internet technology in-house are embodied in web 2.0. Giving power to users, creating new networks, supporting social networks, simplifying the technology - all aspirations of the Intranet - and all key business drivers.
How do we use this social media?
BTpedia:
Following on the success of Wikipedia, it seemed an interesting option for knowledge sharing. A traditional web site called 1001 Facts was proving difficult to update because the owners of the information moved on and the fact had to be removed. Eventually the site became untenable because it was left with only a handful of facts. Now, no one person owns the facts, and while still in Beta version, BTpedia was soon on its way to rebuilding 1001 Facts.
Podcasting:
Brings content to life and builds trust. Human Resources are using it to deliver training; senior managers can issue team briefings; the online newspaper, BT Today, provides a daily news podcast.
Project wikis
Real time collaboration; project teams can update quickly.
MyBT network
A new form of social networking; people can post information about themselves which enables others to find the skills or knowledge they seek. It enables people to make connections with each other.
Blogging
Blogs are open to anyone to use. They enable people to engage with each other and personalise content. Popular with senior managers to keep teams updated.
RSS powered news
One central source keeping many updated. The user controls the content; news feeds can be tailored to their interests.
Key principles
While web 2.0 may appear to be a free for all, there are some key principles BT has adopted. Firstly, there will be no anonymous postings - anyone can read open information, but you must be logged in to contribute. This is followed by the freedom to say what you want, but in the knowledge that you will be held accountable.