re: Lost in Translation

Creative Guru 43 — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 02:01:53 GMT

I think it'd be great if Big Workplace (TM) would embrace more of the technology at our disposal for everyday use.

For example...any new iMac comes with video conferencing capabilities right out of the box. You can share files in real time, access other chatters' computers from your own keyboard, and actually hear people speaking. (No more misunderstandings like "stoned!")

It's easy to use the new devices and programs out there to avoid actually communicating with others. Sometimes, you have no choice but to use Email or leave some voice mail, because the person you're trying to reach is simply not interested in hearing what anyone has to say unless it's on their own terms. These people kind of use technology, which SHOULD speed up the communication process and make it easier for things to happen, to AVOID doing work and even to have "power" over the needy person asking for their attention.

There's a good side and a bad side to everything...but we're a long way from employers being tech-savvy enough to actually embrace and promote proper use of the fun things at our fingertips.

It's sad that so many management types see potentially useful gadgets as "buzz words" and passing fads.

I guess as more young people infiltrate the workforce, there'll be a gradual, unavoidable transfer of power to the people pushing progress and using new technology in their everyday lives.

Great post!

re: Lost in Translation

Yosemsam11 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 04:17:53 GMT

What a great and timely post. E-mails have been the true double edged sword of corporate America for years. As noted, great way to get a message out quickly to alot of people, not so great if it's only supposed to go to one person. (Reply All) They can also get people in to trouble even after they have been deleted (Pick a coporate scandal).

And you are so right about the speaking with hands and everything else, I'm Irish and it's hard to convey a wry smile or bit of sarchasm in an e-mail. Thank God for Emoticons ;) Those wonderful little critters that keep some of us out of trouble.

Thanks for sharing you thoughts,
Mike in Mechanicsburg