4 ms·

One thing I often do is split an email into two parts, I'll even label them. High Level Summary: 1-3 sentences that cover the main ideas, kind of an executive

One thing I often do is split an email into two parts, I'll even label them. High Level Summary: 1-3 sentences that cover the main ideas, kind of an executive summary. Details: the nitty gritty, full context, screenshots, etc. People seem to really like this, each reader has the option to dive as deep as they need/want.

Nagyman 6y ago
Good on you for thinking about the user experience of the person receiving the communication. It's a skill to know how to do this well. It requires practice and effort that many people don't bother with – because of a lack empathy, they're too busy, or they realize the recipient(s) won't recognize (or even read) the results. Edit: In my experience, a lot of people can't even bother to think of an appropriate subject line that summarizes the content effectively. "URGENT: please read" is the worst offender.
- Consultant32452 6y ago
  Communication is a weak point in the entire software industry. It permeates everything from emails to variable names. I wonder if it's the same in other industries.
AceyMan 6y ago
I've started using an equivalent pattern and my implementation has generally been a success, so I'll share: My email body has everything the "optimal" reader (i.e., someone who is already familiar with the topic item) needs to |action_verb| regarding what I've written. Then I "conclude" with my usual sign-off (e.g., Cheers, [CRLF] "/Aceyman"). BELOW that—but above my default signature/contact info block—I place all the deeper-dive / expository / rationalization narrative which provides that level of detail for anyone who needs more than my main body provides. I've been using this pattern for about a year or so with good results. /Acey At the start of the supplementary section—and depending on the topic & audience—I'll sometimes use the 'section title' Extra-credit reading, because everyone loves a chance for some extra-credit, right? That's my little psych ploy to entice readers to take a look at the nominally 'optional' expository stuff.
- celeritascelery 6y ago
  I have started to question the value of sign-off text. It seems that is just wastes screen space. The only time it would be useful is when you are emailing someone who might not know who you are. What value do you see in it?
  - Consultant32452 6y ago
    It's a signal that you're in the "in" group of the cultural norms, like shaking hands or the superfluous "Hi" in text chats. The value is social signaling and emotional, not informational.

Nagyman 6y ago

Good on you for thinking about the user experience of the person receiving the communication. It's a skill to know how to do this well. It requires practice and effort that many people don't bother with – because of a lack empathy, they're too busy, or they realize the recipient(s) won't recognize (or even read) the results. Edit: In my experience, a lot of people can't even bother to think of an appropriate subject line that summarizes the content effectively. "URGENT: please read" is the worst offender.

Consultant32452 6y ago
Communication is a weak point in the entire software industry. It permeates everything from emails to variable names. I wonder if it's the same in other industries.

AceyMan 6y ago

I've started using an equivalent pattern and my implementation has generally been a success, so I'll share: My email body has everything the "optimal" reader (i.e., someone who is already familiar with the topic item) needs to |action_verb| regarding what I've written. Then I "conclude" with my usual sign-off (e.g., Cheers, [CRLF] "/Aceyman"). BELOW that—but above my default signature/contact info block—I place all the deeper-dive / expository / rationalization narrative which provides that level of detail for anyone who needs more than my main body provides. I've been using this pattern for about a year or so with good results. /Acey At the start of the supplementary section—and depending on the topic & audience—I'll sometimes use the 'section title' Extra-credit reading, because everyone loves a chance for some extra-credit, right? That's my little psych ploy to entice readers to take a look at the nominally 'optional' expository stuff.

celeritascelery 6y ago
I have started to question the value of sign-off text. It seems that is just wastes screen space. The only time it would be useful is when you are emailing someone who might not know who you are. What value do you see in it?
- Consultant32452 6y ago
  It's a signal that you're in the "in" group of the cultural norms, like shaking hands or the superfluous "Hi" in text chats. The value is social signaling and emotional, not informational.