Paper Summary:

This paper explains that technology is often thought to increase employees' productivity, simplify work and make workplaces better; however, technology in the workplace also robs employees of privacy and employers of profits when it is misused by employees. The paper points out that experts believe that a certain amount of investigation about and surveillance of employees is necessary to manage a successful business operation. The paper then explores how much investigation and surveillance is too much and how can employees protect their privacy in the workplace. In addition, the paper offers a compromise position, which balances employer needs against employee rights, to the benefit of both groups.

Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
What is Personal Information and Privacy?
Employee Point of View
Advantages for Employees
Disadvantages for Employees
Negative Impacts on Workers
Employer Point of View
Why is Surveillance and Monitoring Necessary?
Surveillance can Increase Productivity
Too Much Surveillance can Hinder Productivity
What Types of Technologies are Available to the Employer?
How Can Employees Protect Their Privacy?
Common Ground
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Many employees are uneasy about this monitoring. They may wish to keep their financial situation private, or may not want the employer "to know their savings patterns" or that they are going through a divorce. Many employees are especially sensitive about their health information; a concern recognized by P.I.P.E.D.A., which outlines the types of health information it covers. Sexual orientation is another area some employees consider sensitive and wish not to disclose to the employer."

Sample of Sources Used:

• F. S. Lane, The Naked Employee: How Technology Is Compromising Workplace Privacy. Toronto, Ont.: AMACOM, 2003.
• Department of Justice, "Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act" [Online]. Mar. 2006. Available: http://www2.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?pub=bill&doc=C-6&parl=36&ses=2&language=E
• J.J. Edwards, Human Resource Guide to Workplace Privacy. Aurora, Ont.: Aurora Professional Press, 2003.
• S.D. Warren and L.D. Brandeis, "The right to privacy," Harvard Law Rev., vol. 4, no. 5, pp. 193-220, Dec. YEAR.
• M. Sheena, "Q&A: Jeffrey M. Stanton on the art of employee surveillance" [Online]. Sep. 2006. Available: http://www.cioinsight.com/article2/0,1540,2014564,00.asp

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