Users' experiences of COM-a computer-mediated communication system

Abstract
This questionnaire study reports results on some aspects of COM-a computer-mediated communication system. It was found that the main reasons for starting to use the COM system were the need for information, curiosity and use as a complement to the telephone. The greatest benefits were being able to obtain information and opinions and to spread information. The COM communication was judged to be dominated by users with a good ability to communicate in writing. The subjects expressed a wish for a chairman who could organize the conference discussions. They experienced spontaneity in COM, but to a certain extent also misunderstandings and aggression. COM was generally seen as easy, friendly and stimulating. The general conclusion is that COM was thought of as an efficient tool for sending and receiving information which does not involve complex communication.

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