Case Study: Reducing Email

Author(s): George Goodall , Christopher Wynder

Email is often used inappropriately. The problem is often tied to its ease of use. Every worker knows how to email. This case study describes the initial conditions that prompted a pilot study of user based changes to email.

  • Head-down, get work done mentality means everyone finds it more convenient to email co-workers in the same building rather than get up and talk to them.
  • A highly collaborative environment that depends on consistent communication.
  • Geographical distribution of specific departments.

Pilot participants responded that the small changes in their outlook settings and behavior gave them greater control over email and their work.