The Quality of Online Relationships

I really liked this article (alot more than the man computer symbiosis).  This is a common thought, we cannot create relationships by only communicating online.  This articles looked at two studies that tested if computer mediated communication is effective personally as well as in the workplace. The one that I thought was interesting was the study conducted with the bank.  I do agree with the results that in a work environment, it is sometimes ineffective and harder to get work down and communicate strictly online.  I do feel that using email is an effective way to keep co workers in the loop and having quick conversations... but there is no way that someone could hold a meeting and use only email.  The other advantage to using the Internet for work is that it helps bring people into your network.  If you are working behind a desk all day you will not have the opportunities to meet people or build work relationships.  I do agree that only having online based relationships is not the way to build upon those relationships.  The Internet should just be an additional tool to improve your interpersonal relationships but not replace face to face communication.  A combination of face to face, talking on the phone, and emailing  (or using a social networking site) can help sustain a relationship.