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Just as the rise of the Internet sealed the doom of grammar, so modern communica

ID: 346158 • Letter: J

Question

Just as the rise of the Internet sealed the doom of grammar, so modern communications technology contributes to the end of manners. Wherever you turn for help, you find yourself on your own." Anyone who has to deal with an automated voice service, so much of a darling of banks, corporations and others of their like, will assert how maddening the process of navigating through their system is. We are seeking help, and we find that, "there is an unacceptable transfer of effort." The system is not designed to put the consumer’s requirements first and is therefore, frustrating says (Truss, 2010).

(Adapted from: http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100704/spectrum/book1.htm)

Does the author of the above extract think that modern technology assists or hinders effective communication. Justify your answer by specifically referring to three things mentioned in the text.

Explanation / Answer

The author of the given text undoubtedly favours the fact that modern technology, though taking a toll, is hindering the constructive communication system. Earlier, communication was direct, and so whatsoever the situation be, was handled there and then itself.

Going by the circumstances that he has mentioned, firstly and truly, the Internet has led to people adapting unofficial and shortcut means to communication. The language used has thus, lost its integrity and mannerism. For instance, there is an endless wait when it comes to reaching out a service, may that be a bank or any other public/ private service, thanks to there automated call system. Now, if say a person has lost his/ her debit card, and wants to lodge a complaint and cease the service temporarily, he will have to go through the entire process of a call to reach out to the concerned executive. That also does not guarantee him landing into the appropraite personnel. This is unfair and leads to the unnecessary exageration of one's valuable efforts.

For any system or service, as they say, consumer is the key. This should be followed, not just to have them registered, but also catering to their basic fulfiling needs of getting services, especially when it comes to a proper and straight communication system. The provision of clear information, may that be over the phone, or the Internet, or in persom, is the key to landing into a proper resolution for the same.