Exploring the Use of Yammer in Business Schools and Universities

Yammer, a social collaboration platform, has gained significant traction among educational institutions, particularly within the realm of business schools and universities. This article aims to explore the adoption and impact of Yammer in these academic settings, providing insights into its role in enhancing communication and collaboration among students, faculty, and staff.

Introduction to Yammer

Developed by Microsoft, Yammer is a social networking tool designed for internal communication within organizations. Its features include group chats, file sharing, and the ability to post updates and engage in discussions. While primarily used by companies, its potential for educational institutions has been realized, especially in business schools and universities looking to leverage technology to foster a collaborative learning environment.

Adoption by Business Schools and Universities

Several institutions have embraced Yammer to improve communication and collaboration among their diverse entities, including students, faculty, and administrative staff. Notably, universities like Pepperdine University's George L. Graziadio School of Business and Management and East Carolina University (ECU) have led the way in integrating this platform into their campus environments.

Pepperdine University's Adoption

The George L. Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University was one of the early adopters of Yammer. They chose to utilize the platform in various capacities, from fostering academic discussions to improving administrative procedures. The school highlighted Yammer's role in enhancing communication among faculty, students, and staff, leading to a more cohesive and efficient academic community.

East Carolina University's Experience

ECU's experience with Yammer is another compelling case study. ECU initially introduced Yammer to the dental school as a pilot project, and the positive results led to a university-wide rollout. According to an article in US News, ECU “began by just introducing it to the dental school and then expanded to the rest of the university.” This gradual approach ensured that the technology was embraced by all stakeholders, from students to faculty members and administrators.

Key Benefits of Yammer in Education

Several benefits are associated with the use of Yammer in educational institutions, particularly in business schools and universities. These include:

Enhanced Communication: Yammer acts as a unified communication platform, allowing users to connect, share information, and collaborate seamlessly. This is particularly beneficial in large, complex organizational structures like universities. Improved Engagement: The platform fosters a sense of community and engagement among students, faculty, and staff, promoting open dialogue and collaboration on various academic and administrative issues. Streamlined Collaboration: Faculty and students can use Yammer to work together on group projects, share resources, and provide feedback. This enhances the learning experience and promotes a more interactive academic environment. Greater Accessibility: With Yammer, users can access information and engage in discussions from anywhere, at any time, making the learning process more flexible and accessible.

Implementing Yammer in Educational Institutions

For institutions considering the adoption of Yammer, certain steps can be taken to ensure a successful implementation:

Pilot Programs: It is advisable to start with a pilot program, focusing on a specific department or faculty, and then assess the results before expanding to the entire institution. Training and Support: Providing adequate training and support to users is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and effective utilization of the platform. Integration with Existing Systems: Integrating Yammer with existing educational platforms and systems (such as Learning Management Systems) can enhance its functionality and ensure seamless user experience. Regular Updates and Feedback: Regularly updating the platform and seeking feedback from users can help identify and address any issues, leading to continuous improvement.

Conclusion

The use of Yammer in business schools and universities has shown promising results in enhancing communication, collaboration, and engagement among various stakeholders. As technology continues to evolve, platforms like Yammer are becoming increasingly important tools for educational institutions aiming to create a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.