1.1.3 Digital Communications

• What should you be aware of regarding digital communication methods?


  A range of digital communication methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and associated barriers to communication
• What are the types of personal and social digital communication methods?

  Methods include emailing, instant messaging, blogs, video conferencing, and social networking
• What is 'Netiquette' in the context of digital communication?


  Social norms and expected behavior when using digital communication methods
• What is a common use of email today?


  To communicate personal and private matters such as car repayments and mortgages
• What issues can arise when using email?

  Viruses, phishing, send/receive assurances, and spam
• What are some types of files that email companies may block to prevent viruses?

  .exe and .zip files
• Why is there no guarantee that an email has been received?


  Because the recipient may not check their emails immediately
• What is a major advantage of using email over traditional post?


  The ability to send the same message to multiple people quickly
• When should you avoid using email?


  For sending important messages with a time limit or complex information
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of emailing?


  Advantages:

  • Rapid
  • Cheap
  • Flexible
  • Available 24/7

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Requires internet access
  • Can spread viruses
  • Difficult to confirm if read
  • Not suitable for urgent messages
  • Spam and unsolicited emails
• What should you do when writing an email?


  Write concisely and check spelling and grammar
• What should you avoid when sending a work email?


  Sending from a personal email address or including passwords in the same email
• What is instant messaging used for?


  To send urgent messages in real time between two or more people
• When should you avoid using instant messaging?


  When sending formal messages or official business documentation
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of instant messaging for personal use?


  Advantages:

  • Real-time communication
  • Instant acknowledgment
  • Easy contact with friends

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Unsolicited messages
  • Unwanted adverts in free services
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of instant messaging for business use?


  Advantages:

  • Contact off-site staff
  • Group communication
  • Supports other communication types

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Risk of distraction
  • Messages may not be saved
  • Potential for spreading misinformation
• What should you do when using instant messaging?


  Avoid closed captions and use status messages effectively
• What is a blog?


  An online diary where you can share thoughts and interests
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of blogs?


  Advantages include easy setup and the ability to earn money; disadvantages include time consumption and potential for inappropriate comments
• What should you do when writing a blog?


  Quote sources clearly and respond to comments
• What is video conferencing?


  A live video meeting between two or more people in different locations
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of video conferencing?


  Advantages include promoting productivity and reducing travel costs; disadvantages include lack of personal interaction and potential technology failure
• What should you do when participating in a video conference?


  Have a meeting agenda and ensure the right equipment is ready
• What is a social networking service?


  An online platform used to build social networks or relationships
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of social networking websites and apps?


  Advantages include keeping in touch with friends and free advertising; disadvantages include addiction and cyber-bullying
• What should you do when using social networking websites?


  Separate business and personal accounts and share mindfully
• What are the internal and external business communication methods you should be aware of?

  • Video conferencing: Face-to-face communication remotely
  • Teleworking: Flexible timetable and remote work
  • Emailing: Quick and professional communication
• What is expected of employees during video calls with many participants?


  Cameras and microphones should be turned off except for the person speaking.
• What is the main purpose of video conferencing?


  To allow face-to-face communication between people in different locations.
• What is teleworking?


  It provides the opportunity for workers to have a flexible timetable and work remotely.
• Why is emailing considered a professional method of communication?


  It is quick and allows communication with various stakeholders globally.
• What is the main aim of promotion in business?


  To ensure customers are aware of the existence and location of products.
• What is online advertising?


  It is a type of marketing that uses the Internet to deliver promotional messages.
• What is an example of an app that facilitates communication among employees?

  Slack
• What are the implications of using different business communication methods?


  • Video conferencing allows face-to-face interaction.
  • Teleworking offers flexibility.
  • Emailing enables quick communication.
  • Promotion raises product awareness.
  • Online advertising reaches a wide audience.
  • Apps enhance internal communication.
• What is a key issue regarding the reliability of online sources?


  Not all information shared online is accurate.
• Why can Wikipedia be considered unreliable?


  Because any user can edit it at any time.
• What is a fact?


  Scientifically proven information.
• What does biased information mean?


  Information written from the perspective of a specific group of people.
• What is plagiarism?


  Using someone else’s work as your own without permission.