The use of computers also introduces flexibility into the format of diaries, presenting different views, such as by year, month or week. Unlike a paper diary, the computer automatically adds new pages when needed, extra room for each day, and retains copies of diaries for years gone past. While this is useful, the most important advantage of an electronic diary over a paper one is in its ability to be shared . Unlike a paper diary, which is bound to one place, staff can access an electronic diary over a computer network, checking to see when other staff are free. Moreover, staff can share a diary, allowing a secretary to run a manager's diary, while still allowing the manager access over the computer network.
Electronic diaries held on desktop computers, then, make booking meetings much easier.
An electronic diaries allows meetings times to be found, arranged, and confirmed, all from the computer, saving time and bother. While these features are useful, an electronic diary does add some complications. Electronic diaries that are held on desktop computers are not as portable as paper diaries. While useful, these computers are still perhaps something of a novelty. While diaries held in personal organisers are more portable, they cannot be shared over the network.