The effects of electronic mail on communication in two health sciences institutions.
A study was done during 1991-1992 to determine the perceived impact of electronic mail (E-mail) relative to other forms of communication in health sciences institutions. E-mail subscribers at two major health sciences institutions were sent 2919 surveys, and 823 (28%) completed survey instruments were returned. A significant positive impact of E-mail was found relative to other forms of communication (e.g., paper, phone) with regard to E-mail messaging, response rates, influence, value, formality, perceptions, errors in communication, cost-effectiveness, communication style, and other factors. Areas where no differences were found between communication mechanisms were also revealing. Technical problems, maintenance, and confidentiality of E-mail messaging were not found to be significant problems. Trends, value, and impact of E-mail use in health sciences institutions are also discussed.
Singarella
T
T
Health Sciences Library, University of Tennessee, Memphis 38163.
Baxter
J
J
Sandefur
R R
RR
Emery
C C
CC
D000046:Academic Medical Centers; D001290:Attitude; D003142:Communication; D003197:Computer Literacy; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D009816:Office Automation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012984:Software; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013689:Telephone; D013714:Tennessee; D013781:Texas