The integration of technology, and the potential for various modes of computer-mediated communication (CMC), influences the way we view small group systems. Technological advances have increased the potential for group members to interact more freely with the environment by opening the lines of communication between those inside and outside of the group. For instance, an input such as the time a member can allocate to the group has become less restrictive as technology has allowed interaction any time or place. The Internet also has increased group access to information about the task (i.e., search engines), increased the flow of information (i.e., email and instant messaging), and allowed for telecommuting opportunities (i.e., web conferencing or face chat). What other group inputs described in this chapter may be enhanced as a result of an increased reliance on technology? What about throughputs and outputs?
Although each of these resources functions to create a more open group system, integration of technology also has a variety of drawbacks that may discourage its use. Think about how the types of inputs you bring to the group (personality, abilities, and expertise) are influenced by your physical presence. If you were relegated to working off-site for a group meeting, would it be possible for you to exert the same input? Mallia found that individuals who telecommute lose status within the group. They also reduce their prospects for upward mobility in an organizational hierarchy chain because of the lack of face-to-face interaction. Can you think of other disadvantages that may result for a group or organization fostering CMC interaction?