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What is Synchronous Communication?

Synchronous communication happens in real time — when two or more people exchange information in the same moment as each other. This could be in-person or virtual, scheduled or impromptu. Some examples:

• In-person meetings
• Phone calls
• Video calls
• Instant messaging
• Asking a teammate across your desk a quick question
• Water cooler conversations around the office.

Synchronous communication is inherently human – it’s how we interact from birth. In most workplaces, these real-time communications have been the default. There are still plenty of occasions when sync makes the most sense. But there are also major downsides.

What is Asynchronous Communication?

Asynchronous communication is any type of communication that includes a lag between when someone sends a message, and when the other person receives and interprets it. Examples include:

• Email
• Project management tools
• Company wikis and workspaces
• Text messaging