Async over-communication

Remote work has become the norm for many of us in tech. While it brings numerous benefits, it also presents unique challenges in how we communicate and collaborate. One pattern I've found particularly effective is what I call "async over-communication."

What is async over-communication?

Async over-communication is the practice of providing more context and information than might seem immediately necessary, but doing so in a way that doesn't demand immediate attention or response.

Why it matters

1. Reduced interruptions: By providing comprehensive information upfront, we minimize the back-and-forth that often plagues remote communication.

2. Better documentation: When we over-communicate asynchronously, we naturally create better documentation as a byproduct.

3. Inclusive collaboration: Team members across different time zones can participate fully in discussions and decision-making.

Best practices

• Write with future readers in mind
• Include context and background information
• Use clear, structured formatting
• Link to relevant resources and discussions

The balance

Of course, there's a balance to strike. Over-communication shouldn't mean overwhelming people with unnecessary information. The key is to be thorough yet concise, providing all the necessary context while keeping the signal-to-noise ratio high.