The clue is in the names – Jive, Chatter, Yammer. Enterprise social networks (ESNs) are designed to help employees communicate and share information and ideas. ESNs have been around for a number of years, but are becoming increasingly common in the mainstream corporate environment as individuals and organisations have grown more comfortable using social media as a business tool. In addition, with the rise in remote and mobile working, companies increasingly recognise the value of a more connected workforce.

The potential benefits of an effective ESN are clear. They are platforms that are designed to build relationships, streamline communication, reduce hierarchy and break down silos, promote collaboration and innovation, and instil a sense of community across organisations that are often distant – whether through geography, structure, or otherwise. The biggest challenge with ESNs, as with any business tool, is adoption by employees. Of course, ESNs also pose certain legal and regulatory challenges and organisations need to address a number of key issues when launching an ESN.