Managerial Communication Strategies and Applications
Case Study About Technological Communication Tools
Read the case study "Improvements at ServeNow" in Chapter 3 of the textbook and prepare a report with the recommendations you would make as the small-business consultant. Read the "Project" section of the case study to see what the focus of your report should be. Be sure to identify all your sources of information.
As a small-business consultant considering all known information, presuming the company has computers already, my recommendations to Mr. Bushley would include; 1) consider E-learning for training; and, 2) Consider downloading an instant messaging program. These technological communication tools would ensure Mr. Bushley’s ongoing contact with his store, also providing him with tools useful in developing his managerial force.
Communicating With Store Chain
Regular meetings and ongoing communication can be a challenge within itself; an instant messaging system would allow messages to be sent immediately; and, usually a programmed sound or other effect drawing attention to the incoming message alerting managers of a message. If there is a pressing matter that needs to be discussed immediately without interruption the software would allow individuals to request a chat where both parties "talk" in real time. You can even talk (type) at the same time (a feature not allowed in regular conversation). Files can be sent as well as greeting cards, e-mails and voice messages (with the appropriate hook-ups). Additionally, some programs offer a video representation (picture) of the person with whom you are communicating. The best part is that there are instant messaging programs that can downloaded for free.
E-Learning Consideration
Web-based training is a powerful instrument for developing a global labor force. Web-based training can deliver custom, sophisticated instruction to employees all around the planet. The use of web-based learning management systems allows your organization's training function to keep pace with the market. Web-based training can be used to provide the needed instruction without taking workers away from their daily responsibilities. E-Learning can help by delivering training for those areas which line managers are normally responsible. They are then freed up to tackle other pressing priorities in their workday. Web-based training programs that offer certifications, college and graduate school education, and other important job skills become powerful incentives for an employee to stay. E-learning programs and training increase employee knowledge and skill levels. As they become better at their jobs, they sell more products, reduce waste, are more productive and efficient. An educated, well-trained workforce is the main driver to profitability for today's businesses. Learners can access courses and content from their office, home, or hotel room from any spot around the globe.
E-learning would reduce travel and related Costs by allowing saving on hotels; airfare, meals, and other travel expenses associate with traditional onsite training. Web-based learning management systems make it easy to track, update, and manage online learners. Learning management systems facilitate, reporting, succession planning, and workforce development from one, centralized, web-based source. Online learners can take training just before they need it rather than enrolling in a program months before they need the training. A centralized, web-based learning management system aggregates all the data into one location were all the necessary managers can access the information when they need it. Web-based training is designed and developed so content can be chunked into discrete knowledge objects to provide greater flexibility. Students can access these objects through pre-set learning paths, use skills assessments to create individualized study plans, or use search engines to locate exact topics. Interactive content, graphics, and animations make lessons standout and help imprint the material on the student's mind. Web-based training makes use of already existing infrastructure such as computers, servers, intranets, etc. There is no addition outlay for hardware or capitol assets.
References
Effective Communication.
Retrieved from http://www.effective-communication-skills.net
E-Learning Benefits and ROI Comparison of E-Learning vs. Traditional Training.
Retrieved from http://www.syberworks.com/articles
“Is Telecommuting Right For You?” Retrieved from http://www.womanowned.com
