CONNECTEDNESS: A NEW DIMENSION OF CMC?

There has been relatively little research on consumer usage of text messages and Instant Messenger, whilst mobile phones and email usage have been more widely addressed. This study compares consumer usage of four communication channels: Instant Messenger, text messages, mobile phones and email, with the focus on consumer choice of communication medium. This research used grounded theory and focus groups among young people. Medium choice depended on functional factors, communication motives, personal preference and a perceived need for 'connectedness'. The paper argues that connectedness is a new dimension of CMC which presents major new opportunities for technological development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]