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Published on: August 26, 2018
The effects of multimedia communication technology on non-collocated teams: a case study
J Carletta1, A H Anderson, R McEwan
1Human Communication Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. J.Carletta@edinburgh.ac.uk
Ergonomics
|September 7, 2000
Summary
Effective communication technology supports non-collocated (virtual) teams by fostering informal interaction. Modest, desktop-accessible equipment is more beneficial than specialized installations for collaborative success in industry.
Area of Science:
- Business and Management
- Information Technology
- Organizational Behavior
Background:
- Collaborative teams are crucial for modern industry, operating both within and across organizations.
- The rise of virtual teams necessitates effective communication technology to bridge geographical distances.
- Understanding the impact of technology on group processes is vital for optimizing team performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the support needs of non-collocated teams.
- To assess the effects of multimedia conferencing technology on group processes.
- To inform the development of communication technologies for virtual teams.
Main Methods:
- Observation of two automotive supply chain teams experimenting with multimedia conferencing.
- Analysis of meeting recordings and other organizational data.
- Examination of organizational factors influencing team dynamics.
Main Results:
- Communication technology can enhance team collaboration when it facilitates close, informal person-to-person interaction.
- Organizational constraints often favor specialized, high-technology installations.
- Teams benefit most from relatively modest, desktop-accessible communication equipment.
Conclusions:
- Virtual teams require communication tools that promote informal interaction to achieve close collaboration.
- Desktop-based, modest technology solutions are more effective for supporting non-collocated teams than specialized installations.
- Integrating communication technology requires consideration of organizational factors for successful adoption.
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