I'm working on a subcommittee to generate ideas that will promote better communications within our area. We brainstormed, and we found the following common themes:

• Technology does not replace human contact. People tend to hide behind IMs and email. It's too easy to fire off an email. It's a way to avoid confrontation or face-to-face contact.
• Email is great for creating an electronic trail. It is not good for lengthy discussions. Readers don't have visual clues to help them interpret. Emails are often misunderstood. Make sure that you use the most effective method of communication.
• We are invited too many meetings.
• We receive too many emails.

If you find an answer to the last two, let me know.