This month we will take a general look at email as a communication tool and next month look at some special aspects of email. Communication is the primary activity and reason d' tre of the Internet. The Internet is an exceptional format for sharing information. It is a combination of a globally distributed cyber-library, post office and discussion forum. While email is not as glamorous as the web, it is part of the glue that holds Internet communities together.
Email is the most important and most often used software on the Internet.
This cyber-postal service is not affected by distance. It doesn't matter if you are writing to your next door neighbor or to a friend in Australia, your note will be found in their mail box nearly instantly. You can send along a wide variety of file types with your message including spreadsheets, pictures, word processing files and even video or voice files. In order to use email properly you should be aware of its strengths and weaknesses. The cues given by fancy stationary are missing.