Electronic mail dysfunction: a reality check

Computer-mediated communication systems, including electronic mail, are systems that businesses employ to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and communication within the organization. As use of these systems proliferate, it is crucial that the communication systems have a positive, rather than negative impact, on the organization. Negative behavior could include flaming and personal use of the electronic mail system. Much of prior research has examined the use of electronic mail in academic settings. Results indicate that flaming and personal use have a relative high incidence. However, is electronic mail dysfunction a consistent reality for both academia and the business world? This case study empirically examines the role of electronic messaging in business firms. Specifically, this research investigates the usage of inter-organizational electronic messaging in intermediate-size firms. Electronic mail messages were analyzed in a three-site case study. Results indicate that dysfunctional electronic mail uses such as personal use and flaming have minimal incidence in a business environment. Implications relate to organizational professionalism and the use of students as electronic mail research subjects.