The use of electronic media for communication has a significant effect on intra-group relations. The group was not as cohesive when using these methods as when face-to-face methods were employed. Electronic media facilitates the formation of subgroups. For instance, Person A might spend five minutes with Person B discussing a matter, yet spend 15 minutes discussing the same matter with Person C. Thus Persons A and C can build a stronger relationship without Person B knowing about it.

E-mail was also used in our repertoire of communication techniques. The drawback with e-mail is that the sender has no idea when or if the recipient receives the communication; much depends on how busy the recipient is. Some people receive numerous messages and respond to them immediately. Others tend to let their e-mail pile up for long periods of time. Still others rarely get e-mail and don't even think to turn their computers on to see if they have mail waiting. Again, the variations in computer technology within the group makes a difference. Programs are available that alert the user to the presence of e-mail, but not all group members owned that type of software. When transmitting writ