Government Agencies: Why Aren't More Using Social Media?

The use of social media is growing exponentially, and it appears that this expansion isn't stopping anytime soon. We see hundreds of federal agencies and organizations jumping on the band wagon to use social media to build professional networks, engage in dialogues with stakeholders, spread information quickly, etc. There are many tools available, but this doesn't necessarily mean that government agencies are embracing all of them, even the most popular ones.

For example, we recently read at Federal News Radio that the National Archives has jumped on the social media bandwagon after trial pilots proved "very successful." Their discovery that a more direct and stronger connection with the public can be built using these media forms. And although some organizations, like the Archives, applaud the convenience and consistency of streaming media and other social media tools, others find it hazy whether or not these tools are advantageous.

Many agencies are hesitant and may see several detriments or risks. Arguments against social media usage include:

• The more relaxed constraints are for employees, the greater the risk that loose-lipped sharing may spill confidential information
• Employees are distracted at work by the constant binging from information feeds and consequently, are unproductive
• Privacy is compromised as hackers or viruses find new avenues into an organization

Consequently, some agencies, such as Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security, limit use of social media tools to a case-by-case basis or block streaming media, according to Alica Lipowicz. It will be interesting to see if these agencies loosen their restrictions over time, and jump on the social media bandwagon, as well. At Ideen, we'll keep assessing the trends ...