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What is computer mediated communication – How does it help? 
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You might have already used computer mediated communication, with you knowing or unknowingly. All the same, at the end of the day not everybody knows what is computer mediated communication? Or how does it help? But it would be rather ideal to share the knowledge that we might have with those who do not know.
What is computer mediated communication (CMC).
Any form of communication between two or more individuals who interact with each other using separate computers or devices through the internet or any network connection is computer mediated communication. This can also be through social media software’s or platforms. Ideally methods though which these devices or computers communicate is not of any importance. But rather the typical communication of people via computers or mobile devices is of importance. In simplicity, it can also be defined as any communication patterns mediated though computers. Taking business and social interactions to a whole new level. Simply because you don’t have to necessarily be in the same geographical location.
Broken down into two forms mainly, synchronous and asynchronous. Asynchronous computer mediated communication does not involve simultaneous communication, as one can send electronic messages to a person within their contacts but does not have to receive an immediate feedback from the receiver. The other person involved does not have to be engaged at that particular time. But would rather send feedback when they are free or have time to do so. On the other hand, Synchronous computer mediated communication involves the engagement of both parties to simultaneously communicate, as this maybe in real time. An example can be having a video or voice call on WhatsApp or any social media platform, thereby requiring the engagement of the recipient. It can also be a normal voice call over a network connection.
Advantages of computer mediated communication.
One of the most advantages of CMC is the blind eye of technology software’s to status and position with respect to hierarchy in social relationships and organizations. Once people have electronic access, their status, power, and prestige are not communicated as compared in face to face situations. Thus, charismatic and high-status people may have less influence, and group members can all participate more equally in computer communication. Hiding hierarchical dominance and power information, makes all participates on the same level and less inhibited about communication. Giving them the opportunity to air out their opinions, ideas and feeling about certain issues within an organization or community. It also yield’s high results within a company or organization as there is more participation and contribution from people who would feel intimidated to speak out in person or public.
Computer mediated communication not only breaks down geographic barriers but also the barriers found within work places, schools, colleges and universities. As students that are silent in face to face communication contribution more in CMC discussions, increasing their participation which led to more of contribution. People can exchange, store, edit, broadcast, and copy any written document. They can send data and messages instantly, easily, at low cost, and over long distances. Two or more individuals can look at a document and revise it together, consult with each other on critical matters or ask for and give assistance interactively.
The biggest or greatest advantage to companies is the ability to work anywhere at any time. Many have allowed their employees to work from home or anywhere. With the introduction of portable laptops. Employees can travel or work from home without reducing their productivity within an organization. Enabling them to multitask which also increases the overall productivity of any individual. The tremendous growth of emails or electronic messages has had some distinctive advantages over many organizations. As messages can be sent and received in written form at anytime and anywhere. Individual who might be intimidated due to factors like character or disabilities to participate in communication. Are allowed to communicate in a location of their choice, engaging in communication with minimal stress.
Disadvantages of computer mediated communication.
Some disadvantages of computer mediated communication may revolve upon hardware failure in computers, low battery in smartphones or laptops. Network failure can also be a cause, as the sending of document may be limited due to lack of network coverage in some part of that geographical location, which can also cause a bad reception to the other party engaged within the communication. Sometime the method of communication also matters as its not just about texting and words. The richness of communication mostly revolve around face to face conversation as computer mediated communication lacks socioemotional and non-verbal cues. As a misunderstanding can also arise during CMC due to misinterpretations of one’s tone or voice, which could cause havoc during the communication. Short and late replies may sound as if someone doesn’t want to communicate or is unfriendly. Or one to think they are just being bothered by the conversation.
Issues of trust and confidentiality also arise as we use computer mediated communication as who is who, are they trust worthy. Every time you use CMC you are simply putting yourself out there. Voice and video call are prone to be taped, spoofed, phished and so on. Documents and messages can be sent to spam email. They can also be edited by malicious users. Raising concerns of what the other party can do with the information sent to them if they are not trust worthy. The more wide and advancing the internet is becoming, attackers and malicious users are becoming vicious and finding different ways of attacking their prey.
How does it help?
Computer mediated communication helps in different ways such as it helps those that feel intimidated by hierarchy in face to face communication or discussions, to choose a suitable place to their liking so that they can air out their views and ideas freely. It also helps in business where deals and contracts can be signed without the need to travel as you can send and receive documents online, reducing costs and expenses than the amount you would use to travel. People can now be employed and work from their homes without the need to travel early morning for work and still increase productive. Giving them the chance to multitask or even be employed by two companies if possible.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, they are advantages and disadvantages to everything out there. Some times the advantages are more than the disadvantages or vice Versa depending on what you are doing either school, work or business related. But in most cases confidentiality and trust are the key to running a successful business. Please feel free to leave a comment of what you think about computer mediated communication through our comment section below, your contribution would be highly appreciated.
Hey Volkert. Very interesting article. I do believe that due to covid, working from home and all issues connected with it, computer mediated communication become essential part of every business. It gives broad possibilities of managing even large group of employees and speeds decision making process. At the same time we can’t forget that even best technology can’t fully replace face to face contact and human relationships can’t be build only on it.
There is always more to human face to face interaction, but computer mediated communication covers the gaps were face to face interaction can be a challenge to people.
I embrace technology. And concerning communication, I think it’s something we should consider as top priority. Between having a person and using CMC I agree that the latter is better. Having the blind eye of technology software’s can make everybody accept CMC. Thank you very much for this helpful post.
I agree with you that when it comes to communication, CMC is the best. But it truly has its own disadvantages too.
It is quite clear that today people spend most of their time communicating through social networks rather than face to face. I agree that it has its disadvantages because for many the relationship with a person has been reduced to online communication, but it also has great advantages. Thanks to online communication, people do their jobs from home and because of today’s situation, this is definitely a plus. Great article.
Thank you for that plus Barbra and i think CMC has true done a lot when it comes to communication.
Hey Volkert,
Great article highlighting the key notes of computer mediated communication.
At first glance, it seems like a complicated topic to hear CMC. However, you did well to break it down and even cover the advantages and disadvantages of CMC in everyday life.
We are now living in the world where CMC is becoming more prominent. I realized that offices tend to use more synchronous communication now that some people work from home. But even through synchronous, companies may not achieve the same results as human interaction, where every detail is accounted for because of our presence. I also find CMC to be overloaded in terms of there is delays or latency issues, which does affect the overall communication quality as compared to face-to-face interaction. Although, CMC is a breakthrough benefiting many people through this crisis, where we can maintain that connection to those who are not physically present in terms of continuing everyday life/business, etc.
CMC has changed the way we communicate and it does show benefits as we can communicate whenever and wherever we are. But it also reaps a new set of issues in organic communication which could be resolved better in the future. For me, I guess there should be a balance for everything when it comes to communication.
Thanks for the informative article and also differentiating between the forms of synchronous and asynchronous. Best regards!
Hello Joeyoung, quiet a detailed one there. CMC can be aggregated into its advantages and disadvantages. And despite having its disadvantages, it has really helped with bringing loved ones closer including those we cant reach to have a face to face interaction or connection.
Hello there! Thanks a lot for sharing this beautiful article with me! Really glad I came by this article on Computer meditated communications! . A CMC interaction occurs through various types of networking technology and software, including email, Internet Relay Chat (IRC), instant messaging (IM), Usenet and mailing list servers. Will definitely share this
Hello Rorodote, that would be a good thing to do.
Wow, what a neat idea! I agree that breakdowns and barriers to effective communication can be costly and dangerous. Aiming to find a solution to this is definitely a worthy goal. CMC seems like a smart way to break down the common sticking points / pain points and get through to the real heart of the issue.
Do you have any favorite links to share for more information? Any favorite books or articles on CMC?
Hello Aly, there are so many books you can get about CMC. It all depends on which one best suits you or has a better understanding for you. You can try out one by Crispin Thurlow.
This has been a very informative article. I appreciate all the information that you have provided for us on this article. Thank you so much for everything. And thank you so much for sharing this with the world. More people need to know about computer science in general, no matter what the subject is on as long as it’s computer science
Thanks for your comment Misael and am glad you found it useful.
Thank you so much for sharing such an informative post about computer mediated communication, this is the first that I heard of this term. Basically the job sounds like a mediator to me. I love the fact that the job is easier with the help of technology but just like anything else it has it’s pros and cons. I guess it is just like what you said. We just have to give it a few runs and weigh the pro and con to move on for a better solutions.
Hello Nuttanee, thank you for taking time in reading the article and a glad you learnt something new.
Wow this a great article. I do believe that due to covid, working from home and all issues connected with it, computer mediated communication become essential part of every business. It gives broad possibilities of managing even large group of employees and speeds decision making process. At the same time we can’t forget that even best technology can’t fully replace face to face contact and human relationships can’t be build only on it. Thanks for sharing
You are most welcome Zayom and thank for leaving us a comment.
Hey Volkert, thanks for the article! For the last year, given the global situation, I’ve been forced (like many others) to work remotely and CMC became my primary way of communication. It feels different than a person-to-person interaction and I have mixed feelings about it. I love the privacy I get as well as the social exposure, as I’ve been able to interact with people from all over the globe, but on the other hand, I don’t like not being able to see their expressions and body language clearly. It is more difficult to build trust with peers this way. Anyway, your article about CMC has great points and was fun to read.
Cheers!
Thanks Alex for taking time to read though this article and leaving a comment behind.
Computer mediated communication has become such a large part of our lives these days and one can easily communicate with friends and family that are different parts of the world. It is also essential for most businesses these days, specially with so many people working from home. Face to face meetings are still the best for me personally, but I can certainly see all the advantages and benefits of computer mediated communication.
CMC can’t completely take out the benefits of a face to face conversation but it can breach the gap when face to face conversations ain’t possible.
Technology has come so far that it’s simply staggering. I remember the time when calling overseas was so expensive that no one ever does it. Now, it’s free! One just needs an internet connection and through Facebook messenger, WhatsApp, or one of the many other apps available, one can even see the other person as if they are in the same room. Amazing.
Technology has truly advanced over the passed decades, calls were really expense and mostly communication was done by mail but now its just though the snap of fingers and you are connected to your loved ones or friends.
I have been using Zoom all this time and I never knew the process was called computer-mediated communication. Also didn’t know about the terms synchronous and asynchronous. You have certainly improved my technical knowledge today.
There are always advantages and disadvantages to everything, but in this case, I definitely think there are more advantages. If it wasn’t for synchronous computer-mediated communication, I could not have kept on teaching during lockdown last year, and I would have had to shut down my business. I am also now able to attend meeting overseas that I would previously not been able to afford to go to, so for me, it’s a win-win all around.
Hello Michel, many are times we use different aspects of technology without knowing the actual underlining implementations and in most cases it to our advantages, its great that you have learnt something new and please do stick around you might learn something new (feel free to also check out pros and cons of digitalization, you might find it useful).