Management's fear of downloads is certainly not misplaced. But nothing short of eliminating Net access or imposing draconian work rules will stop the downloading. It's just too useful. So it's up to agency managers to educate users and learn how to deal with the flood of new software on Web-enabled networks. Some managers have designated an authorized download guru to receive user requests, then find and deliver the most appropriate information and software.
Security is much better when one individual is responsible for downloads and virus scanning.
Now let's look at some downloadable programs that could benefit users and managers. The same files you don't want children to see are just as inappropriate for adults during business hours. Even if your employees don't need browser upgrades, they may be complaining that a lot of sites aren't fully accessible with their basic browsers. Users don't even need to search for the plug-in download sites. Web pages that would be enhanced by a certain plug-in offer the visitor a chance to download it immediately.