Employees realized that the few minutes of recreational surfing they did each day collectively added up to a lot of wasted time. And they also recognized that a strict policy of monitoring would be enacted if they didn't cut back. Managers concerned about productivity need not turn to detailed monitoring. All they need do is look at the output of employees. When it comes to wasting time, there is no difference between surfing the Internet or reading comic books at the office.
Employers are well within their rights to take disciplinary action.
Yet managers seem to think the Internet presents a new and particularly insidious way to slack off at work. This is probably more hype than fact. Managers should also keep in mind the productivity gains made possible by the Internet. Such opportunities far outweigh the negative uses, such as visiting recreational sites, especially if employer rules and expectations are clearly set forth in company policy. An Internet policy should include everything from the adoption and use of technology, such as firewalls and encryption, as well as training issues.