Because e-mail is so easy, speedy, and convenient, it dominates business communication. Communication advances — such as texting and tweeting — may simplify quick exchanges and arrangements. On the other hand, traditional letters and memos may still be preferred for formal, official correspondence. However, e-mail messages easily meet traditional needs because they can be (1) transmitted within organizations (like memos) or between them and other parties (like letters), (2) printed or stored electronically (like permanent file copies), (3) written with standard components and length (like traditional memos or letters), or (4) used to cover transmittals (with formal reports, memos, or other documents attached).

E-mail’s conversational quality also necessitates professional caution. Although regular correspondents may write informally and overlook each other’s quirks, your e-mail messages are part of your company’s official record and have no guarantee of privacy. Without warning, your confidential exchange can be intercepted, reviewed by others, forwarded to other computers, distributed electronically, or printed.