MBA 527 - Conflicts Over Privacy in the Workplace

Conflicts Over Privacy in the Workplace

There is tension between companies and their employees over privacy in the workplace. Some companies track employees via company-issued GPS-enabled smartphones and monitor employees' behavior through social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Currently, there are no laws preventing companies from monitoring and tracking employees. Companies believe not monitoring these platforms leaves them vulnerable to misconduct. For instance, the Internet increased the number of distractions in the workplace, and some employees may spend up to 30 percent of their time at work using social media sites for non-work purpose.

On the other hand, employees argue they have a right to their privacy. They see tracking as a clear sign that their employers do not trust them. Another major argument is that employers with access to employee social media sites or smartphones might be able to monitor employee activity outside the workplace. Where is the like drawn on ensuring employees are working appropriately versus their rights to privacy?

Defend the statement below. Conduct research and defend your side of the debate - be sure to cite your source(s).

Employees should be able to maintain their personal privacy and not be tracked through their company smartphones or their Facebook and Twitter accounts.