On the other hand, if you rely on synchronous communication, you may prolong the corollary conversations around the project and negatively affect productivity. Often, email is considered a prime example of https://remotemode.net/. But, depending on your workplace, even email can have a more real-time, “URGENT PLEASE READ” feel to it.
Fortunately, the idea of asynchronous communication has evolved in recent times. We’ve left behind carrier pigeons and horseback couriers, and now have tools like email, SMS and online chat tools. Don’t get us wrong— real-time collaboration and communication channels can improve productivity amongst remote teams if the mood and situation are right.
⏰ Time-saving
Asynchronous communication is a form of communication that does not require the presence of both parties simultaneously for interaction to occur. It allows team members to respond at their leisure without being tied to a real-time conversation. Asynchronous working makes sense for teams working across different time zones but it isn’t only for remote teams.
It’s the perfect example of asynchronous communication – the good, and the bad. Another advantage is that it can be less disruptive than synchronous communication. People are able to fit their management of communication in around their own timetables – giving them time and space to focus on ‘deep work’ where required. You can also send photos, videos, and even pre-recorded screen shares as well. Asynchronous communication is a great way to cut down on meetings and synchronous working hours, but there’s no point blowing up inboxes. You’ll only contribute to employee burnout and lose important comms to lengthy email threads in the process.
Embracing an asynchronous workflow
This method includes mainstays of office life, like meetings, live training sessions, and conference calls. When you schedule meetings, do whatever you can to optimize productivity. One great way to do that is to cap meetings at around 30 minutes, or introduce a break around the 30-minute mark for longer asynchronous communication meetings. A shared workspace is a central source of truth and communication for your entire team. Written communication via asynchronous messaging is more reliable than face-to-face communication. Unlike asynchronous work, synchronous work allows people to answer right away and resolve matters instantly.
The initiator of the communication is typically not asking for anything ASAP—otherwise they would send a direct message or give their colleague a call. With asynchronous forms of communication, it’s implied that the content can be reviewed within a certain timeframe. During async communication, with multiple tools open, people can default to multi-tasking and thinking every notification is urgent and needs their immediate attention. This can normalize context switching and notification overload as you constantly toggle between tools and messages.
#4 Video Communication Tools
This type of application should never stop and wait for responses before it moves on to the next action. Instead, the communication alone should trigger either personnel or another application to take action. Once you’ve built a clear picture of how your organization can move toward greater asynchronous communication, the next challenge is to communicate your expectations to the wider team.