Business and Professional Communication Quarterly Oct 2025

The Evaporating Cloud as a Business Communication Tool: A Systematic Framework for Conflict Analysis and Persuasive Compositions in the Workplace

Mahesh C. Gupta ; Annika Reitenga University of Louisville ; Christina Davidson University of Louisville

Abstract

In today’s digitally advanced, AI-driven workplace, effective communication is more critical than ever. Business communication scholarship empathizes competencies such as professionalism, clarity, conciseness, persuasiveness, and evidence-driven messaging, yet applying these systematically in complex decisions remains a challenge. This article introduces the Evaporating Cloud tool—part of the Theory of Constraints Thinking Processes—as a structured communication aid. Through a fictional case study, we show how EC clarifies objectives, uncovers underlying needs and hidden assumptions, and supports ethical, collaborative decision making. The article highlights EC’s value in enhancing core communication competencies in business and professional contexts.

Journal
Business and Professional Communication Quarterly
Published
2025-10-04
DOI
10.1177/23294906251374631
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Topics
collaborative writing professional writing qualitative research
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