Introduction

Today we are swimming in communications.  While many of the tools we use to moderate our way through the morass are helpful, many are starting to show signs of wear and tear.  Some of them are downright broken.  It has gotten to the point that it isn’t unusual to hear that someone has given up answering email.  But this isn’t a new phenomenon.  I know many people who refuse to answer their phone and let the voice mail pick it up. 

What is the solution to all this mess?  Is there a solution to all this mess?  That isn’t a question I’m willing to ask in earnest just yet, let alone answer.  Before we give up on answering it, let’s start by looking at the problems and see if there is a good way out of this problem.  

First we will look at the types of communication.  Then we will address the time sensitivity of the communication. Additionally, we need to look at the direction of the communication.  Finally we need to look at the security needed in the communication.