The Extension Administrators could mandate that certain types of correspondence be done only via email among the Extension professionals. The sole use of email for some types of information can be used as means to create the need for training as well as a training tool. Further research is needed in the development of training and update sessions for Extension professionals to use email. Training needs to be in different segments such as system protocols, email etiquette, potential uses of email other than the basic memo or letter correspondence, and security concerns for ES professionals to be successful with electronic correspondence. Studies could be conducted on clientele of Extension to see if they would go to ES for training or help with email, or pay for the use of email at a County Extension office.
Electronic surveys are a cost effective method which save envelopes, paper, stamps, and staff time.
In this age of shrinking budgets, email surveys are a practical way of saving time and money for any university, organization, or individual. The turn-around time for completing an email survey will save time for a researcher. Email letters and follow-ups can be individualized or personalized, if necessary and appropriate. Graduate students and faculty, in the future, can use this tool and be confident of its results. This research study demonstrates email surveys as a convenient method of collecting data for extension and agricultural educators.