Four Types of Media Technology
Media Technology covers many different types of vehicles for the delivery of messages. Since this arena is so vast, the focus here will be on four specific types. First, the Intranet and Extranet will be discussed. These are private and semi-private computer networks within organizations. Next, will be the coverage of telephone and video conferencing which is widely used for business meetings and group discussions. FaceTime will be the last technology which though new, seems to be quite popular for both business and social use. The current generation, dubbed “Generation Wireless” is touted to be the most connected of all time. With the pros of connectivity, come the cons which may provoke lively debate.
First, is the intranet which differs from the internet in that it is a private computer network within an organization intended for secure communication. It also provides a private place to access data such as schematics, proposals, management tools, human resource forms, policy, procedures and other items. It can enhance productivity by providing easily accessed information. This restricted information can only be viewed by an invited audience. Specifically, this network uses internet protocols, network connectivity, and sometimes telecommunication systems. “Increasingly, intranets are being used to deliver tools and applications, eg: collaboration (to facilitate working in groups and for teleconferences) or sophisticated corporate directories, sales and tools, project management, etc, to advance productivity.” (Strom, 1998) Sometimes there will be online forums or blogs for discussion of issues, ideas, directives or analysis. Helping employees function more effectively increases productivity, creating great savings for organizations. Another benefit is that employees that feel that their input is being heard have more job satisfaction. When an intranet is made available to customers, suppliers, partners or others outside the company, that becomes a part called an extranet.
Extranets provide a great source of information and can help improve customer relationships. Only those approved have restricted access to this semi-private network which provides organizations with a secure way to share information and usage by invited users. These types of networks eliminate the use of encryption and help provide links for safe communication. A good extranet is user friendly and enables usage that is simple. “With an extranet, a company can freely participate on the World Wide Web; give employees access, via browsers to internal databases while keeping the public out; and provide customers and suppliers with password-protected access to selected parts of the same data.” (Storm, 1998).
When meetings must be attended by parties in different geographical locations, often teleconferencing is used. These virtual meetings allow participation and listening by the invited parties. “Companies commonly use a specialized service provider who maintains the conference bridge, or who provides the phone numbers and PIN codes that participants dial to access the meeting or conference call.” (Stone, 2010). This type of meeting works well when some, or all, of the group may not have access to a computer. It can be effective when meeting in person is too difficult or costly.
When meetings must include visual presentations, video or web conferencing is most effective. This too allows parties in various locations to view and participate. “These systems were introduced in the late 1990’s and greatly improved usability over ‘legacy systems’ which required a technician to manage the call.” (Advanstar, 2002). This type of connection most emulates being there in person, and requires equipment and a computer. “The camera and
processing technology are in one box which can be remote-controlled through a graphical, on-screen menu.” (Moore, 2008). Video conferencing can add a personal dimension while closing a geographical gap.
FaceTime will conclude this discussion with the ability for conversations that include images of the person and their surroundings. It is sometimes called video chatting due to its social and personal nature. Various smart phones offer applications to enable this type of communication and are very popular amongst teenagers. Seeing someone that you are sharing a conversation with seems to add a personal touch to regular phone calls, as expressions, actions and gestures can now be viewed by each party.
Even though access to technology has connected the world more effectively than ever in history; there are a few things that are not viewed so positively. Generation wireless in their connectivity has been said to experience loneliness and isolation. Quite possibly, all of this technology is prohibiting people from being in front of others. Social interaction has been diminished in a world where communication lacks the personal “touch” of being there physically. As old fashioned as attending a meeting or function in person is, maybe this is lacking in a society so well “connected.” A handshake and a hug just might be more important than one might think.
Caron Carus, March 21, 2011
References
Advanstar Communications, (2002), Remote management: Happier users, happier IT
BNET website, from Telecom Asia, retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://findarticles.com/p/artuckes/mi_m0FGI/is_12_13/ai_96237476/
Moore, D.T., (2008), How does a video conference work? Ezine @rticles website, retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=David_T._Moore
Stone, J., (2010), The advantages of teleconferencing, Articlesphere Website, retrieved March 21, 2011 from http://www.articlesphere.com/Category/Conference-Call/339
Strom, D., (1998), Roadmap to the extranet, Datamation website, retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://itmanagement.earthweb.com/netsys/article.php/605861/Road-map-to- the- extranet.htm
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