Gains and Losses in the Rhetoric of Virtual Workplaces

Abstract

Virtual workplaces are constructed of people using technology to work at a distance, with the goal of transferring knowledge (both explicit and implicit) toward specific purposes. What are the communication gains and losses most experienced in virtual workplaces? Using an economic frame, this chapter seeks to review literature on virtual workplaces from across professional fields in order to suggest methods for maximizing communication utility and minimizing losses in virtual workplaces. With rhetoric as the primary unit of exchange, what steps can be taken to ensure its effectiveness? Current research points to planning, face-to-face opportunities, mixed media, boundaries, and meta-communication as most important as well as the ability to adapt them to the characteristics of virtual workplaces.