Written Communications in Business

In his discussion of written communication as it relates to business, Egan (1995) states:

Writing is the single most widespread activity in business today. The advent of computers, fax machines, e-mail, and all the other paraphernalia of the so-called paperless office has not reduced the need for effective business writing whatsoever. Modern professionals now spend more time than ever wordsmithing on their Powerbooks, PC laptops, and Pentium PCs - up to 70% of their day according to Fortune magazine. Writing is also one of the most expensive business activities. (p. 34)

The consequences of poorly written communications are profound. These consequences can include: rejection of organizational proposals sent to funding organizations such as the state or federal government; increases in company costs due to employees spending more time on the job solely to decipher poorly written communication; failure of employees with poor written communication skills to earn larger salaries and/or to be promoted to higher organization levels; and accidents occurring as a result of misunderstood written communications (Egan, 1995). The consequences of poorly written communications in businesses and organizations highlight the need for colleges and universities to maximize students' business writing skills. One way of improving these skills is through thorough assessments of students' present skill levels and any resulting increases in these skill levels following instruc

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