Getting a Foot in the Electronic Door: The Process of Reading or Deleting Electronic Mail

Tracy L. Tuten

doi:10.2190/6tn4-pwhk-f24y-6g5f

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jul 1998

Getting a Foot in the Electronic Door: The Process of Reading or Deleting Electronic Mail

Tracy L. Tuten Randolph–Macon College

Abstract

For researchers, a key issue in developing electronic mail as a survey method is to understand what factors are at play as a potential respondent chooses to open or delete a mail message. This research investigated the process by which individuals make decisions about opening and reading versus deleting electronic mail and also assessed attitudes toward electronic mail surveys. The sample received an electronic mail message followed by a telephone interview. Results indicated that individuals delete mail when the subject line does not interest them or when they do not recognize the name of the individual sending the e-mail. Those interviewed reacted favorably to e-mail surveys for scientific research despite issues of anonymity. However, respondents overwhelmingly described a dislike for commercially based electronic mail surveys.

Journal: Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published: 1998-07-01
DOI: 10.2190/6tn4-pwhk-f24y-6g5f
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Open Access: Closed
Topics: digital rhetoric
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Getting a Foot in the Electronic Door: The Process of Reading or Deleting Electronic Mail

Abstract

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References (21)

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