| In spite of the powerful functionality and message integration offered, unified communication (UC) has yet to be widely adopted as a solution that meets the demands and complexities of modern communicators. By understanding individual differences, requirements, and preferences, it should be possible to design better communication interfaces and services. A literature review discusses the characteristics and problems of UC, and models of communication preferences. A research study then examines the characteristics of communication-related preferences among users of a three-month UC trial. Survey data from 170 respondents were analyzed. A series of factor analyses identified nineteen communication preference traits. A cluster analysis suggested three types of communication styles: Low-tech, Power, and Strategic. A cluster analysis identified three levels of UC usage: low, medium, and high. Further statistical analysis identified relationships between demographics, communication preferences, and communication styles on the one hand, and UC usage on the other. |
