The document discusses the complexities of communication within a staff network and the various connections and potential connections that can exist among them. It highlights the increasing specialization of staff and the corresponding need for diverse communication tools, such as wikis and meetings, to facilitate effective interaction. The text emphasizes the importance of direct and solution-oriented communication to overcome silos and align individual efforts with common goals.

1. Communication Disconnect?

2. Five staff
Each person had four other connections to manage.
Total number of reciprocal connections = 10.

3. Twelve Staff

4. Twelve Staff
Each person has 11 potential connections.
Total number of possible connections = 66.
This does not include Taligent contract
staff, temp staff, and other positions.

5. Metcalfe’s Law:
Connections in a network = n(n-1)/2
2 telephones = 1 connection
5 telephones = 10 connections
12 telephones = 66 connections

6. Increasing Specialization
• Staff are increasingly focused on areas of
specialization;
• Complexity of tasks increases

7. Demand for Formal/Informal
Communications Tools
• Wiki
• Status Board
• Monday Meetings
• Staff Meetings
• Team Meetings
• 1:1 with Manager
• Messaging
• E-mail (cautionary note)
• Salesforce Chatter
• Informal

8. E-mail
• - Pick Up the Phone Instead of Emailing to
Communicate Your Point Without Making
Enemies: http://lifehac.kr/uNkyaE
• Google “Writing Effective E-mail”

9. A Communications Approach
• Solution-oriented
• Deal directly
• Don’t assume
• Recognize and break down silos
• Common mission vs. team/individual domains