Digital Age: Week 2

Communication in the Digital Age

Technology-mediated Communication (TMC)

  • Definition: Any type of communication that is utilized for conveying a message through electronic equipment such as:
    • Smartphones
    • Tablets
    • Cell phones
    • Laptops
    • Desktops

What is Technologically Mediated Communication?

  • Technologically-mediated communication (TMC) is defined as:
    • A process wherein human data interaction occurs via one or more networked telecommunication systems.
    • TMC interactions occur through various technologies and software, including:
    • Email
    • Internet Relay Chat (IRC)
    • Instant Messaging (IM)
    • Usenet
    • Mailing list servers
  • Source: Techopedia, referencing the definition of computer-mediated communication.

Historical Context of Communication Technologies

  • Communication Theorist's Observation (40 years ago):

    • “Communication is eccentrically a social affair… but life in the modern world is coming to depend more and more on technical means of communication, telephone and telegraph, radio and printing.”

  • Past Context:

    • Only a few generations ago, the communication revolution was dominated by the long-distance telephone.
    • In the 1920s and 1930s, placing a long-distance phone call was a significant occasion; for example:
    • A three-minute station-to-station day time call from New York to San Francisco cost 75 cents, equating to $20.70 in today's dollars circa 1915.

  • Developments Over Time:

    • Twenty-five years ago, discussions of telecommunication included definitions of “floppy disk.”
    • Twenty years ago, textbooks dedicated substantial space to:
    • The differences between hardware and software
    • The purpose of a modem
    • The transition from electric typewriters to word processing.

  • Current Context:

    • Today, prominent technologies in the workplace include:
    • Personal computers
    • Laser printers
    • Video conferencing
    • Wireless Local Area Networks (LANs).

Importance of Communication in Organizations

  • Vital for Existence: An organization cannot exist without communication.
  • Purpose: Effective communication keeps employees informed about:
    • The organization’s business vision
    • Strategy
    • Common purposes across individuals.
  • Creation of Shared Meaning: Communication is essential for establishing:
    • Shared meanings
    • Norms
    • Culture of the organization.

Technological Innovations for Workplace Communication

  • Investment in Communication Technologies: Companies view new communication technologies as important investments for:
    • Creating a new paradigm for workplace communication.
  • Revolutionary Changes: Major developments in technology have transformed how communication is mediated.

Communication Channels in Organizations

  • Definition: Communication channels are the means through which individuals in an organization convey messages.
  • Importance of Channel Selection: Attention must be given to what channels are used, as inappropriate choices can lead to negative consequences:
    • Example: Complex messages require richer communication channels for clear interaction.
Types of Communication Channels
  • Richest Channels: Include elements like:
    • Facial expressions
    • Follow-up questions
    • Instant feedback.
  • Broadcast Media:
    • Examples: Radio, TV & loudspeakers
    • Used for addressing a mass audience (e.g., global addresses by CEOs).
  • Face-to-Face Communication: Effective for small groups, tailored meetings, and specific messages.
  • Electronic Written Media: Comprises platforms such as:
    • Email
    • Internet
    • Intranet
    • Social media.
  • Formal Written Communication: Includes:
    • Policies
    • Letters
    • Memos
    • Manuals
    • Notices
    • Announcements.