2.6.4 Online writing
Electronic communication has developed rapidly over the last 30 years and has brought us several new ways to communicate, such as email, chat rooms and instant messaging. As Eunson (2005) suggests, this has led to the evolution of new ways of business writing. For example, online writing tends to be non-linear or mosaic, rather than linear, such as in a report. Readers acquire information frequently by hypertext links, with the web pages forming an information network; web pages are written with fewer words than a traditional page. Other changes include emails having fewer formalities than traditional letters or memos - and emoticons have become very common! Dwyer (2005, p.574) outlines some of the key elements of an effective online writing style in Table 19.1. And there are many sites on the internet that will give you help - some sites that may be useful include the Google guide to online writing at http://directory.google.com/Top/Arts/Online_Writing and the Netlingo dictionary at http://www.netlingo.com
Activity 2k
Read about the various components of communication online in Chapter 19 of your textbook.
Answer Questions 7 and 8 from Discussion and Group Work on page 587 of your textbook.
Test your new online searching skills by finding websites that give you information on effective writing online, besides those given above.
This chapter introduced the components of a plain English writing style and summarised some of the more popular applications of business writing. Unlike the case of the spoken word, often you are not there to explain any misunderstandings arising from written communication. Neither can you instantly gauge a reaction and modify your behaviour. Therefore, written communication needs to be developed and evaluated carefully before sending it to the receiver.
Summary activities
Consider your writing effectiveness. Analyse several pieces of your writing using the components of a plain English writing style.
Read through Reading 2.1. Reflect on this writing style. Was it easy to understand? Write a précis of its key points. Do you understand it better now you've written the précis? Why? (Remember to use this skill in your studies from now on!)
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