TEC Project Report: Social media and online collaboration tools' place and purpose in committee work

Abstract

The AWWA Information Management and Technology Research Committee, under the Water Science and Research Division, conducted a 15‐question survey and commissioned research into the benefits and risks of using social media and collaboration tools by AWWA committees. The survey included multiple‐choice and free‐form questions relating to social media and collaboration tools used for committee and/or volunteer work for industry organizations. Utilities today face tighter budgets and a greater need for collaboration than ever, and social media and collaboration tools have demonstrated potential in addressing these issues. This article presents the results of the survey and research and suggests guidelines for social media and collaboration tools that may be of interest to users, no matter which direction AWWA takes in the future. AWWA currently recommends that committees do not use general collaboration tools or social media, except in specific defined instances, because of intellectual property rights risks but will incorporate this project's findings into its decision‐making process as it develops a path that best supports the association's objectives and its members.