Study of IM and Productivity

Does the use of Instant Messaging improve productivity? Does constant interruption inhibit creativity? Despite the fact that it can be maddening at times, an Ohio State and UC Irvine study says that it does improve productivity. It suggests that new patterns of communication that have developed around IM have made it acceptable to ignore certain kinds of interruptions. The study used some 900 full-time knowledge workers. Good sample size at least. Here is the full paper. Despite what it says in some comments, big enterprise has largely embraced IM. It is used in all of the large companies I have been involved with. Usually optional within work groups. More commentary.