Clamor about Yammer: In-house micro-blog can unite far-flung staffers

Twitter-esque service helps businesses foster collaboration across the nation — even around the globe

When staffers need to collaborate in close proximity, talking across a desk or over a cubicle wall might seem like a fine solution. But long-distance coordination limits your options: Conference calls and the requisite follow-ups? Inbox-clogging e-mails? A never-ending game of phone tag?

The internal micro-blogging service Yammer is a viable alternative. It’s like Twitter in some respects, but it has two advantages — it’s accessible only to designated employees, and there is no limit on the number of characters per blast.

Employees can use it socially, of course, to chat about Lost or The Office, but it serves a utilitarian purpose, as well.

Kari Chisholm, president of Mandate Media in Portland, Ore., says Yammer improves communication among staff in different cities.