Business instant messaging (BIM) software is a real-time, text-based internal messaging platform for businesses. It typically enables users to create small group chats for team collaboration, as well as larger channels for dispersing company-wide information.
The rapid nature of these instant messaging products provides an internal space to quickly address coworkers without using informal means such as texting from a personal phone number. This enables teams to share information faster and more efficiently, which can help enhance productivity across the enterprise. Regardless of the device used, BIM platforms provide security features via encrypted messages and channel access control. Similar to email software, BIM software enables users to share files, thread messages, archive conversations, and search internally within chats.
A growing number of these products now have artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, which enable smart replies and auto-responses when activated, as well as sentiment analysis for mood detection with responses.
BIM platforms often have integrations with AI chatbots software and virtual assistant software to amplify productivity, especially in strengthening search capabilities and real-time language translation. AI also reinforces such platforms’ security features by continually monitoring communication channels and detecting threats to the platform.
Businesses of all types and sizes use BIM solutions with other products, either alongside them or via integrations. This type of communication software allows for customization based on the company’s needs. It can often be integrated with productivity bots software, video conferencing software, screen sharing software, project management tools and more. Business instant messaging tools can also be integrated with software such as employee intranet software or employee engagement software as ways to strengthen the employee experience. However, there are standalone BIM solutions available that can integrate other productivity software natively. This allows for further personalization based on the needs of the enterprise.
To qualify for inclusion in the Business Instant Messaging (BIM) category, a product must:
- Allow users to engage in peer-to-peer conversations, group chats, or channels in an instant messaging format
- Provide secure file sharing capabilities
- Enable users to search within the channels and chat histories
- Track conversation history
- Integrate with chatbots, employee intranet, video conferencing or productivity apps
