Digital Tech Changes how Professionals Work

 The following blog entries will consist of three posts working together to create a cohesive understanding of the topics discussed.  The first post in the series will discuss how technology has changed the work of communicators. 

Figure 2. Evolution of Communication--click here for full infographic

It is no secret that digital media surrounds us on a daily basis.  During dinner, waiting online for an event, and many other circumstances, millennials can be seen immersed in the cellphones either scrolling through updates on a social media platforms or texting friends.  Mobile and digital technology really have changed the way in which we live and collect or share information.  “From social media platforms and blogs to online news sites and mobile news applications, people depend on mobile technology in order to access breaking news, connect with one and another and share information.” (Calhoun, 2013)  However, what many individuals overlook or fail to realize is that this new technology is having an effect on how communicators do their jobs.  Today, communicators are forced to captivate an audience that is used to multitasking on a higher frequency.  “There is no such thing as ‘dead time’.” (Dewey, 2014)  Individuals are increasingly using their cell phones whenever they get the opportunity.  They are connected while getting coffee, taking public transportation, and even while going to the bathroom.  We have no choice but to multitask in this case.  “Multitasking existed long before the Internet, of course, but the ubiquity of smartphones—and tabs! Infinite tabs!—has made multitasking both easier and more damaging.” (Dewey, 2014)  We have rewired our brains to feel the need to be constantly scrolling or active.   

Figure 1.  Evolution of Communication 

Due to the increased activity on the Internet or social media platforms, professional communicators are no longer the ‘gatekeepers’ of the news.  Increasingly more and more information is coming from the web.   This video explains how technology really does impact communication. “The web has become the go-to point for the globe when it comes to getting information…more generally, technology has improved the processes of identifying stories that are newsworthy.” (Krotoski, 2011) As a result, communication professionals have to shift the way the reach an audience to fit the Internet and social media demands.  Communication now has to be quick, often instantaneous and more deliberate.  But, meeting these demands and shifting from traditional forms of communication, such as newspaper, broadcast, and telephone, to uploading and interacting on the Internet with social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, can be a shock to those professionals who do not understand nor were properly trained how to use this form of communication.  

Works Cited: 

Calhoun, A. (2013, October 22). Keeping Up with Mobile: A Game-Changing Strategy. Retrieved December 16, 2015, from http://www.prsa.org/Intelligence/TheStrategist/Articles/view/10396/1084/Keeping_Up_with_Mobile_A_Game_Changing_Strategy#.VnGq-tIrKKp

Dewey, C. (2014, March 12). 36 ways the Web has changed us. Retrieved December 16, 2015, from https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/arts-and-entertainment/wp/2014/03/12/36-ways-the-web-has-changed-us/

Krotoski, A. (2011, February 19). What Effect Has The Internet Had on Journalism Retrieved December 16, 2015, from http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2011/feb/20/what-effect-internet-on-journalism

Images: 

Figure 1. Evolution of Communication. [Jpeg]. Retrieved January 10, 2016, from https://janamalos.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/evolution-of-communication.jpg?w=497

Figure 2. Evolution of Communications 2000-2015. [Jpeg]. Retrieved January 10, 2016, from http://web.esna.com/blog/how-the-internet-has-changed-communication-and-collaboration-since-2000

Video: 

Blake Vest. (2014, March 6). Effects of Technology on Communication. [Video File] Retrieved January 10, 2016, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6TOq4APDKo