My friend works for a company that has an on-line calendar system which allows anyone in-house to check in and see what their co-workers have scheduled - unless it is marked "Private", and then the time is shown as blocked out but the reason/activity is hidden from view.

It can be an extremely helpful, time saving system; do you need to talk with someone about a problem? Check his/her schedule to see if they are in a meeting first. Trying to schedule a committee meeting? Check the schedules of those involved, find a convenient date and time, "insert" it into their calendars, and a request for approval goes to each person. (The need for approval prevents people from scheduling others for activities without their knowledge.)

Recently, my friend received a request to approve a meeting time from someone with whom he was not familiar (it's a large company). This person wanted an informational meeting, and although he had no idea what this person was in need of, my friend approved the request. The meeting date and time was set -- only to be cancelled by the individual who had made the request. He then came back and attempted to reset a meeting not once, but two more times.

To put it in baseball terms, it's three strikes, you're OUT!

People are usually happy to help others. If someone approached you and asked for your advice or help, how would you respond? For those of you who are feeling snarky today and saying "It depends on what the person wants..." yes, I understand, (and agree with you); but for the most part, people like to help other people. The key is to ask first - not assume that it will be forthcoming immediately upon your request.