Globalization: Global Virtual Teams

Synchronous and Asynchronous Communication

Synchronous Communication

Synchronous communication occurs in real time. Regardless of the distance, the people using synchronous communication are asking and answering questions as if in a conversation with people who are next to each other. However, the asking and answering may occur as audio, texting, video or a combination of the three. An advantage is the immediacy of asking and answering questions. The disadvantage is those with second language skills may not feel comfortable speaking the second language. Sometimes accents make it difficult to understand team members. Depending on the technology and band width available there may be delays in asking and answering that stretch out a conversation or those with second language skills may need greater time to process questions and formulate answers. Some virtual tools include video conferencing, personal conferencing, SMS, text messaging.

Asynchronous Communication

Although tools used for asynchronous communication may be used in a synchronous manner, but they are intended to send a question or answer for a team member to view and answer at a separate time. This type of communication allows individuals to formulate responses, alter wording or correct grammar and spelling. It provides for a less stressful interaction as one must not respond on the spot. A disadvantage is the lag of time in having a conversation. What could be spoken about and settled in a few minutes could take a few hours or days. If a team member does not respond in a prudent amount of time (usually within 24 hours) the communication could become even more problematic. Unless a system is in place for determining which message was sent and responded to, messages may become more confusing. Examples of asynchronous communication are e-mails, shared document, blogs, wikis, etc.

The use of synchronous and asynchronous communication is illustrated by the diagram to the right. A co-located team is illustrated by the two frames on the left as they would meet synchronously (same time) and often in the same place (person-to-person). Or they may be located in the same building, campus or city and text one another to communicate asynchronously.

GV teams are illustrated by the frame above. Here team members are in different locations, but communicating synchronously (at the same time) with each other. Asynchronous would occur by sending e-mails to each other or sharing documents through a common source such as Dropbox or Google docs. Members can access the communication or document and respond in a timely, but convenient manner.