Constantly we are bombarded with ways to do things cheaper and easier. Recently, I have had some insight that these two principles apply to communication as well. We have been given multiple options to be able to reach others at the touch of a button whether that is through the internet or via phone. At almost any time of the day we can find out where other people are by using options such as Facebook updates, Twitter, or text messaging. We can now communicate with individuals or groups through many methods and at any time.
Many of the new methods allow us to contact others in a less expensive way than previously may have been available. Recently, traveling internationally I inquired into ways I could communicate with others while I was overseas. After calling my cell phone provider I found out that it was much cheaper to use the text message option rather then actually speaking over the phone. This method was not only cheaper but I also found it was much easier. I could send a brief message within minutes to my family and friends in the
That's a very interesting question at the end- how beneficial is communicating through text? I would argue that although it can be less costly and very convenient that it takes away a little of the personal touch of making a phone call or even send an email and the more often you rely on it, the less personal a relationship can grow. Don't get me wrong- I thrive on texting! But I definitely take the time to make a phone call. There are other cost effective means- such as Skype which is free.
ReplyDeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteI find the availability of constant contact to comforting when I think about my loveones. When I get beyond that constant contact facilitates productivity at my job. I only participate out of necessity because I find texting to be in-personal. I still perfer voice where inflection and tone really let you know where people are coming from. In answering your question to me text communications impede real relationships business or personal.
Julie,
ReplyDeleteNice post! I too enjoy the convenience and speed of text messaging. I must admit however, being limited to 160 characters hinders true effective communication. I agree that in your situation while being abroad, when you are at work, or in specific instances where you have little free time texting may be the better option.
Julie, it is nice to have the convenience of being able to 'reach out and touch somebody' at any point, however, there is still something to be said for personal conversation. Quick texting has its place and time, but I think it removes some of the emotion and feelings that can be experienced with a conversation.
ReplyDeleteI do like the convenience factor of this kind of technology. I personally do not like talking on the phone and feel it can take up to much valuable time. There are many instances where talking on the phone is much better than a text but when I can I prefer just to send a quick text and really when you are outside the country it can be kind of a pain to make a phone call back home.
ReplyDeleteJulie, you make a lot of good points in your post. I agree that technology has "flattened the world" as Thomas Friedman would say. I think it's not only easier and cheaper to communicate, its also faster. In many cases this is a good thing although think about all the spam that is out there. Not only does the cheaper, easier, and faster qualities of texting and email apply to the productive uses but also enables individuals and companies to exploit those qualities.
ReplyDeleteI feel that more than ever before we must be selective and careful with how and what we communicate. Technology can enable that communication to happen in different ways although we are still responsible for crafting a message that gets our point across.
Staying in touch is certainly popular. Text messaging is huge. I read recently that members of younger generations are sending more than a 100 text messages a day. How much is communicating and how much is status, peer pressure, etc.?
ReplyDelete