Internet relay chat (IRC)
Internet relay chat (IRC) is a low cost Internet tool giving real-time communication between individuals. As a user in one location types in a comment, it is simultaneously available to those around the world who are ‘tuned in’ to a particular channel and can then type in a reply. As with other tools mentioned in this section, IRC formerly required a special tool, but has now migrated to the web and owing to their popularity, advertising is placed on these sites.
IRC seems to be used more for recreational than business use. In a marketing context, it is often inconvenient for a company and its customers to communicate simultaneously since the relevant people may not be available. Asynchronous delivery systems such as e-mail or discussion forums are more practical. For a company wishing to provide a customer support facility to view questions from other companies, discussion groups are more practical.