Abstract: A method, system and computer-usable medium for providing synchronous, real-time collaboration in an instant messaging system (IMS). A shared workspace is created on the IMS, accessible by IMS users through a collaboration window implemented on their respective IMS clients. Predetermined digital content is entered into the shared workspace by an IMS initiating user. Modification operations are then synchronously performed in real-time on the digital content by one or more IMS modifying users within their respective collaboration windows. Modification operations performed by a first IMS modifying user block a second IMS modifying user from performing their own modification operations until the first IMS modifying user relinquishes control. Predetermined visual attributes are assigned to each IMS modifying user to visually track the modifications they make.