Once the software is on the desktop, a user can create a user directory of other users with the same software. When the user logs onto his or her computer, the software produces a list of people on his or her directory who are currently online. With instant messaging software, a user can send a message to another user's desktop computer and they can chat online in real time via a pop-up window. There are many benefits that instant messaging can offer a law librarian. The real time communication allows for instant feedback on a reference request.
Instant messaging alleviates the time delay of e-mail.
It alerts attorneys that a search is complete and checks for satisfactory results. Immediate feedback allows a librarian to check for relevancy from the attorney and either continue the search or end it, knowing the attorney has what he or she needed. Many versions of instant messaging allow for file transfers. This would allow a librarian to attach a document, such as an updated court docket, to the message. This technology is best suited for ready reference questions.