Internet impact on productivity

Like many elements in the workplace, Internet access can be a good thing, when managed properly, and not so good without stated policies.

Authorized business use of the Internet can greatly increase productivity on many tasks, and in fact, is essential for many assignments.

However, studies have indicated that employees spend anywhere from 45 minutes to three hours a day on the Internet for personal business during work hours (not counting lunch and recognized breaks). The average is about 1.8 hours, or 100 minutes, or 22% of the work day -- about twice what management often suspects.

Employers should develop and implement usage guidelines for employee access to the Internet.