Communications Technology

Benefits of Communications Technology

Ease of Communication

When you communicate using a cell phone or other transportable telecommunications device, you aren't restricted in where and when you can communicate (with the exception of poor cell phone reception). You no longer have to be at home or near a pay phone in order to make a call, and you can even send written messages through cell phone devices in the form of text messages or even emails.

By breaking down these location barriers, communication becomes faster and easier than ever. For businesses, this means that proposals can be approved even during out-of-office hours (or relationships can be forged cross-country with no need for face-to-face meetings). For individuals, this means that distance is no longer a boundary that will result in strained relationships.

Reduced Waste

Part of the appeal of technological communications is the tendency to stray from traditional formats of written communication like faxes, letters, and even books. By using text messages, email, and even personal reading devices, users can reduce the amount of paper they use and waste on a daily basis.

Drawbacks of Communications Technology

Isolation

It is much easier to live and work in social isolation thanks to communications technology. While there are benefits to not being required to make a personal connection for each and every social transaction, too much isolation can be detrimental to business and personal relationships. For example, it is easier than ever to send a quick email to check on the status of a loved one. However, as we have discussed in other sections, there is a lack of emotional connection through this kind of written communication. Too much of this isolation can put a strain on relationships and even contribute to poor mental health.

Boundaries

As communication becomes quicker and easier, it is more difficult to separate one's home life and one's business life. In the past, the only way to conduct major business deals or to attend to the details of the workplace was by being physically present or setting face-to-face meetings. Since email can be checked from almost any location and cell phones make communication easier, many individuals find their work hours encroaching on their home lives – regardless of whether the action is voluntary or not.

Misunderstandings

With the exception of cell phones and other telephone devices, most modern communications devices rely heavily on written communication; text messages and emails are commonly adopted in place of personal confrontations. However, the potential for misunderstandings is increased through written communication.