Youtube, Facebook at work? It's a question of trust

Companies that heavily monitor or restrict internet usage and other activities display an inherent mistrust of their staff.

SHOOT: I believe if you work in an industry such as Media and Communications, it's counterintuitive to block access to some of the most popular sites in the world. But there should be a way to balance trusting the employee and holding them accountable for work that needs to be done to deadline and to the appropriate standard. But it doesn't have to be a case of either/or.

clipped from www.sitepoint.com 1. Work breaks are not a new phenomenon The internet has not introduced slacking: there are any number of ways to take unauthorised breaks. Those without Internet access can indulge in cigarette smoking, extra-long toilet breaks, chatting by the water cooler, leisurely coffee making, day-dreaming, staring at the moderately attractive person in the next cubicle, wandering around the office with a file, or any other way to interrupt the tedium of their job. 2. The web improves technical ability Using the web helps technical literacy. Even if someone just learns to use their browser more effectively, it will ultimately help them become more productive. 3. The detrimental effects of blocking the internet Those with restricted access may not be able to: access genuinely useful work-related resources perform personal tasks such as banking or shopping – they may need to leave work earlier to carry out those duties, or satisfy their web cravings