E-mail Overload in Congress: Managing a Communications Crisis is out dated but still educational. I recommend also reading the Update as well.
The pros and cons of the email options for a political office are spelled out expertly. The thing I kept asking my self was, “Who are these people that refuse to answer email with email?”
I guess this is simply an example of a bureaucracy changing slowly, but it still amazes me. I am glad that the Update goes on to say how many offices have adopted better email policies.
I also liked the fact that Tennessee was so well represented.
To Bill Frist, I say “well done”!
To Zach Wamp, I say “bravo”!
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Email on the Mind
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2 comments:
I was also surprised to read that many offices refused to respond to emails via email. I think you’re right about the bureaucracy changing slowly.
It’s actually nice to know that many representatives feel that a written letter expresses more gratitude than an electronic one. Additional concerns about electronic forgery are understandable.
I’m sure most Americans went through a slow transition towards trust of electronic communications and transactions. Many are still going through it! I completely mistrusted online banking and bill paying until about a year ago. These things take time.
I've heard Members of Congress say that the advent of email increased by 5 to 10 fold the number of incoming messages they needed to respond to. The ease and speed with which people can communicate by email has really stressed the traditional constituent service model in the Capitol. To last in Congress, you need to be attentive to your constituency, but as email volume continues to grow it will really challenge a Member's ability to be responsive.
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