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8/12/2009

CFHRA HR Update: Strategic Electronic Information Policies Can Minimize Legal Exposure

Orlando partner Rex Stephens authored an article, "Strategic Electronic Information Policies Can Minimize Legal Exposure," which was published in the Second Quarter 2009 edition of the Central Florida Human Resource Association's HR Update. The article was orginally published on March 17, 2009, on the Society for Human Resource Management website.

According to Stephens, "Since the advent of capitalism, dissemination of information has been the lifeblood of business. Over time, companies' communication strategies have evolved from newspaper ads and product placements on 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' to 'webinars' and e-mail 'blasts.' Corporate policies and governmental oversight, including judicial decisions, have tried to keep up. But the methods of communication have grown exponentially, and companies (and the government) are struggling to keep pace. As a result, it is difficult to weigh the uncertain legal and business risks against the advantages associated with electronic information."

Stephens goes on to discuss various aspects of electronic information companies should consider, including:

  • Assessing company culture: Reluctant users, cautious enablers or pioneers
  • Risks of blogging: Identify strategy regarding company-sponsored blogs and similar innovations
  • Opportunities breed challenges: Tough decisions about whether the company should embrace new tools (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace)
  • Value and risks: How much control should a business have over the individuals who develop content for internal & external electronic resources
  • Strategic planning: To ensure that company goals will be met and to minimize unexpected legal exposure