The Fridge: internal communications at the State Library of Victoria

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advise the Library sector about the existence of a new approach to internal communications, in the form of an intranet which delivers “fresh news daily”, similar in format to a major online newspaper.Design/methodology/approachIn 2007, and prior to the launch of its redeveloped intranet, the State Library of Victoria revolutionised its internal communications with the introduction of The Fridge – a new, online, daily news service. A small icon – in the shape of a fridge – was posted on the desktop of every Library staff member.FindingsToday, The Fridge has become a widely used and highly trusted Library tool. It has demonstrated an enhanced commitment to “real‐time” employee communication through the ability to deliver fresh news and important information daily. It has demonstrably increased morale, productivity, performance and retention of valued staff, and has played a key role in quantifiably lifting the operating “climate” of the workplace. It has helped to build a stronger workplace community.Research implicationsBecause of its “real‐time” capabilities, The Fridge is used as an internal market research tool. It has been used to gauge employee opinions and feelings on a range of subjects, the responses to which can be fed back within hours.Practical implicationsRecent Fridge research has asked staff for their opinions on a range of topics, including their favoured subjects for future articles. The Fridge is used daily by the CEO and Executive to pass on critically important information about the organization, thus avoiding the dreaded “everyone” e‐mails. The Fridge is also used to post daily updates on current events and “What's on” activities.Originality/valueThis paper introduces a revolutionary and unique new approach in internal communications to Libraries, with the ability to transform internal communications.