Outlook
2010 gives users the ability to associate images with user contacts, so that
each time an email is received from another co-worker or client, their image
will appear at the bottom of the email or in the corner of the email on an iOS
device. Our internal BIT email
administrators are able to associate each state employee’s photo with their
information in the Global Address List.
Beginning
in June 2012, BIT implemented the Outlook 2010 Photo Feature for all BIT
employees to use as a reference and customer service tool for the organization.
To test this feature, Data Center managers along with the integration team
helped to upload staff pictures into Active Directory and made them visible
through the state email system.
BIT
is a servicing organization and staff images help to transform our organization
from a faceless company to people that our customers can relate to. The
personal connection and technology services BIT has to offer our clients is an advantage
we have over outsourcing similar services to a private vendor. Photos of our
staff will help to reinforce this.
This
is an easy way for new hires to figure out “who is who” within the
organization, rather than using the ever-so-informal organization chart,
without putting their image in an online directory for the entire world to
access. It also works well for meetings with other co-workers and clients,
helping to associate a name with a face.
A
tremendous amount of positive feedback has been received regarding this
feature, both internally within BIT and with other state agencies. It helps
assimilate new staff into the agency community faster than before. It provides
staff with a welcomed feeling and promotes face to face communication among
employees.
If you are a state agency and are interested in pursuing this feature further, please connect with your Point of Contact.