What Is Asynchronous Communication & How Do You Use It?

In the modern workplace, traditional face-to-face discussions at your coworker's desk have become a rarity. Instead, you're likely to hear requests like, "Could you Slack or email me the details? I'm swamped." This shift towards non-real-time communication is on the rise, supporting remote work and flexible schedules.

Even if you work in the office, your busy routine often clashes with your colleagues' availability. That's why asynchronous communication is gaining popularity as a preferred method of workplace interaction. In this article, Aniday will define asynchronous communication, contrast it with synchronous communication, and provide practical examples for its adoption in your workspace.

Asynchronous Communication Definition

Asynchronous communication involves a time gap between sharing information and receiving responses. It doesn't occur in real-time like phone calls, face-to-face meetings, or live video conferences. For instance, when your coworker is busy and can't chat in person, she opts for asynchronous methods like Slack or email to process and respond to your information at her convenience.

To grasp it better, let's compare asynchronous communication to its counterpart, synchronous communication.

Why Embrace Asynchronous Communication?

A Stanford study of 16,000 employees showed that remote workers are 13% more productive. In another case, a company's shift to remote work added $1.3 billion in annual value.

With asynchronous communication, you bid farewell to the rush-hour commute, office politics, and the constant need for physical presence. This newfound control over your day allows more time for family and hobbies.

While location independence contributes to remote workers' happiness, asynchronous communication is equally pivotal. In a remote-first, fully asynchronous setup, you choose when to begin your day and how to manage your inbox. The pressure to respond immediately vanishes, providing a relaxed start to your workday.

Many companies recognize that remote work is the future but struggle to relinquish control to employees and adopt asynchronous communication. The benefits include a happier workforce, reduced costs, and access to top talent worldwide.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Communication

To understand asynchronous communication better, let's compare it to its counterpart, synchronous communication:

1. Synchronous Communication

• Happens in real-time.

• Requires participants to be present simultaneously.

• Examples include phone calls, video conferences, and face-to-face conversations.

• Effective for quick decision-making and immediate feedback.

2. Asynchronous Communication

• Occurs at different times.

• Participants do not need to be present simultaneously.

• Examples include email, text messaging, and message boards.

• Provides flexibility, allowing participants to respond when it suits their schedules.

 

While synchronous communication is vital for certain situations, such as urgent matters or brainstorming sessions, asynchronous communication offers benefits such as reducing interruptions, accommodating different time zones, and supporting thoughtful responses.

Asynchronous Communication Examples

Asynchronous communication takes many forms. We've mentioned two: email and Slack (or alternatives like Chanty or Glip). Updates and comments on an internal wiki or shared messaging board also qualify as asynchronous communication.

You might also employ asynchronous video tools, such as Loom or Soapbox, for remote or globally distributed teams. These tools allow you to pre-record messages for your colleagues to view at their convenience, offering several advantages. It eliminates the need to coordinate meeting times across different time zones. You can plan and present your message effectively, even using visual aids. Plus, it ensures your message is on point without distractions or omissions that might occur in a live meeting.

Moreover, it gives your team the space to absorb information at their own pace and revisit it if needed, particularly when dealing with complex topics.

Asynchronous Communication Tools

There are different kinds of asynchronous communication tools that you should know:

1. Google Drive

Google Drive is a cloud-based document collaboration platform that allows multiple users to work on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. Users can access, edit, and comment on documents asynchronously. This tool is valuable for teams working on projects, reports, or any collaborative work that doesn't require real-time interaction.

2. Slack

A popular messaging platform for teams that supports both real-time and asynchronous communication, offering channel-based conversations and collaboration features.

3. Loom

Loom is a video messaging platform that enables users to record and share video messages with their team or colleagues. This is particularly useful for asynchronous communication when explaining complex topics, sharing updates, or providing feedback. Recipients can view the video at their convenience.

4. Tettra

Tettra is a knowledge management tool that helps teams create, organize, and share documentation. It facilitates asynchronous communication by allowing team members to document processes, guidelines, and project information. This makes it easier for team members to access important information without having to ask repetitive questions.

5. Slab

Slab is another knowledge management and collaboration platform that emphasizes asynchronous communication. Users can create and edit documents collaboratively while allowing team members to access information and contribute as needed, even if they're in different time zones.

6. Asana

Asana is a project management and task-tracking tool that supports asynchronous communication by allowing team members to assign tasks, set due dates, and communicate about projects. While it has real-time features, the task assignment and comment system is perfect for asynchronous collaboration.

7. Twist

Twist is a messaging app designed for asynchronous team communication. It organizes conversations into threads, making it easier to follow and engage in discussions when it's convenient. Twist prioritizes thoughtful responses over immediate ones.

Avoid the "Always On" Culture and Collaborative Overload

Collaborative overload occurs when excessive communication hinders an employee's productivity. Causes include a prioritization of communication over work. According to Harvard Business Review, today's employees spend 50% more time on collaboration than they did two decades ago. Excessive email, meetings, and messaging can disrupt workflow, leading to overtime without extra compensation.

Remote Work's Future: Prioritize Efficiency

The future of work is embracing diversity and distribution. Companies are discovering that physical proximity is not essential for success. The focus is shifting to results and productivity, rather than clocking hours.

Embracing an asynchronous system allows access to global talent and grants your team the autonomy to work when they're most productive. It promotes deep work, the ability to disconnect as needed, and return recharged.

Conclusion

Asynchronous communication allows for flexibility in when and where you share information and when and how you respond. It's essential in our fast-paced world to prevent misunderstandings and lost messages.

Aniday believes that a balance between synchronous and asynchronous communication is key to successful collaboration, aligning with our schedules and preferences. Explore tools to enhance your efficiency and embrace asynchronous communication in your personal and professional life.