Virtual Communities/Social Media - Essay Example

Postcards Part One Postcards are significant means of communication although the internet has led to a decrease in their use. Postcards can be acquired from relevant postal authorities. Besides the postcards, one needs to purchase stamps from the same authorities. Unlike postcards that can be printed by an individual or a private organization, the stamps have to be issued by the postal authorities. The acquisition of the postcards was influenced by two factors. The low cost not only makes them affordable, but also allows bulk purchases.

In addition, the stamps required to send the postcards can only come from one source. This protects the integrity of the postal service by ensuring there is uniformity. After writing a brief message, the stamp is placed in a designated box on the postcard. It can be delivered in person to the box office or placed in the mailbox. However, the most convenient thing is to place them in the mailbox outside the house. A post office messenger picks the postcard alongside other letters and delivers them to the post office where they are sorted and dispatched to the indicated address.

Part Two The sending of postcards is influenced by two factors. Firstly, post offices have many branches that make it easy for people to access postal services. Secondly, the postal service collects mail from households. This is convenient for the sender because they do not have to go to the post office. The process is guided by the four technology regulations. The four regulations include norms, markets, laws and architecture (Lessig 123). The low cost is as a result of market forces. It is worth noting that the market determines the value of goods and services.

In addition, laws regulate all sectors of the economy and society such as how they communicate. In addition, the availability of many post office branches is attributed to the architecture of the postal service. It is designed to provide ease of access to as many people as possible. The collection of mail from households is attributed to the norms in the society. It is expected that service organizations will provide as much convenience as possible for their customers. The factors determine how people use postcards.

For example, the high cost of stamps and postcards would discourage people from sending many postcards. If private companies were allowed to issue stamps, the postal service would generate less revenue. The situation is likely to compromise the services provided. Having few branches would inconvienience users due to lack of access. Lastly, the withdrawal of household mail collection would force every customer to go to the post office. This will not only be an inconvenience, but will also result in long queues in the post offices.

In conclusion, it is clear that the purchase and sending of postcards is determined by a several factors. Furthermore, these factors are manifestations of the regulations that govern the postal system. It is important to note that changes in the factors would adversely affect the process because it would lead to a less satisfying user experience. Works CitedLessig, Lawrence, and Lawrence Lessig.Code: Version 2.0. New York: Basic Books, 2006. Print.