18th April 2002
When I first got online, instant messaging tools were rudimentary. We used "TALK" to interact with remote users, and "PHONE" to chat with local users (at least, in VMS). These utilities enabled us to interact with other people in real-time. We could add other parties to the conversation with a simple invitation. It was easier than connecting to a chat server somewhere (which, at that time, really didn't exist). Most IM clients have a "group chat" feature; when you're trying to communicate ideas between than one person, consider coming together in a couple of (quick) clicks. In the Windows / MSN Messenger, start a Conversation, click Actions | Invite Someone to this Conversation, then select another online buddy to launch an impromptu roundtable. In ICQ, simply set your status to "Chat" and your friends can join you at any time. In AIM, simply click the "Chat" button, then select the Buddies to invite. Don't have ICQ or AIM installed on your system? No problem. Search for "AIM Express" or "ICQGo" on Google and you'll be whisked away to Web-based equivalents.