From Complex to Clear: A Data Expert’s Guide to Better Presentations

A Data Expert's Guide Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

 

At the intersection of mathematics and business, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic discovered her calling: helping people transform complex data into compelling stories. With credentials spanning applied mathematics and business administration, Knaflic honed her expertise through roles in banking, private equity, and Google's People Analytics team before founding Storytelling with Data, where she now teaches others the art of data presentation.

 

Throughout her career, Knaflic has observed a persistent challenge in business presentations: slides that fail to convey their intended message. Despite presenters having valuable insights to share, their points often get lost in a maze of excessive information and competing visual elements. The problem isn't just poor design – it's the fundamental disconnect between what presenters want to say and what their audiences actually understand.

 

Her solution is refreshingly straightforward: embrace simplicity and maintain unwavering focus. Each slide should serve a single, clear purpose, stripped down to its essential components. When presenting complex comparisons or temporal developments, Knaflic advocates for a methodical approach: using animation and narrative to build understanding piece by piece.

 

This step-by-step methodology transforms data presentation from an information dump into a guided journey. Rather than overwhelming audiences with multiple points simultaneously, presenters can lead them through a carefully constructed narrative path. It's an approach that recognizes a fundamental truth about human comprehension: people absorb information more effectively when it's presented in digestible segments rather than as a complete picture all at once.

 

In essence, Knaflic's philosophy suggests that the art of data presentation isn't about showing everything you know – it's about showing exactly what your audience needs to understand, one clear insight at a time.

 

NOTE: This is a summary of the chapter-opening vignette that appears exclusively in Chapter 17 of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, by Bovee and Thill (Pearson).

 

Business communication instructors and their students can step into the future of business communication with the new, groundbreaking 16th edition of Business Communication Today by Courtland Bovee and John Thill—where artificial intelligence meets time-tested principles. For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seamlessly integrated into every chapter, making this the first business communication textbook on the market to offer comprehensive AI coverage.

 

Neuroscience Meets Business Communication Education

 

This text integrates research-based principles from neuroscience to enhance learning.  This innovative approach aligns with how the brain learns, retains, and applies information, transforming how business communication is taught and mastered. Imagine students who don’t just memorize concepts but confidently apply them. With engagement soaring and retention deepening, your classroom is where communication skills are mastered for life. Give your students the neuroscience advantage. Join leading colleges and universities already seeing remarkable results with our neuroscience-based approach.

Words That Work: How a Multilingual Storyteller is Transforming Business Communication

Multilingual StorytellerRashida Tayabali

 

From the vibrant storytelling traditions of Kenya to the bustling business landscape of Sydney, Rashida Tayabali has transformed her lifelong passion for narrative into a thriving career helping businesses find their voice. As a multilingual communicator fluent in six languages, Tayabali brings a uniquely nuanced understanding of how words can bridge cultures and connect with audiences.

 

After transitioning from corporate life and establishing herself as a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers, Tayabali founded a specialized writing consultancy focused on small and medium-sized businesses. Her dual career as a novelist enriches her approach to business communication, allowing her to weave compelling narratives that resonate with readers while achieving strategic objectives.

 

At the heart of Tayabali's success is her collaborative philosophy. She partners closely with clients to craft authentic web content and marketing materials that speak directly to their target audiences. Her multicultural background and linguistic expertise enable her to navigate subtle cultural nuances, ensuring messages maintain their impact across diverse audiences.

 

Tayabali's journey illustrates the evolving opportunities in professional writing, from technical documentation and training materials to white papers and social media content. Her path demonstrates how combining formal business communication skills with practical experience can lead to a rewarding career as an independent writer. For those drawn to the creative aspects of business writing, her story shows how embracing one's unique perspective and understanding of audience needs can transform a natural gift for storytelling into a successful entrepreneurial venture.

 

NOTE: This is a summary of the chapter-opening vignette that appears exclusively in Chapter 5 of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, by Bovee and Thill (Pearson).

 

Business communication instructors and their students can step into the future of business communication with the new, groundbreaking 16th edition of Business Communication Today by Courtland Bovee and John Thill—where artificial intelligence meets time-tested principles. For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seamlessly integrated into every chapter, making this the first business communication textbook on the market to offer comprehensive AI coverage.

 

Neuroscience Meets Business Communication Education

 

This text integrates research-based principles from neuroscience to enhance learning.  This innovative approach aligns with how the brain learns, retains, and applies information, transforming how business communication is taught and mastered. Imagine students who don’t just memorize concepts but confidently apply them. With engagement soaring and retention deepening, your classroom is where communication skills are mastered for life. Give your students the neuroscience advantage. Join leading colleges and universities already seeing remarkable results with our neuroscience-based approach.

 

The Art of the Corporate Apology: Lessons from Apple’s iPad Ad Backlash

Apple's iPad Ad BacklashIn an era where AI and technology increasingly intersect with creative expression, Apple's "Crush" commercial for the iPad Pro struck a particularly sensitive nerve. The visually arresting ad featured various symbols of artistic creation – from musical instruments to books – being systematically destroyed and compressed into an iPad, all while Sonny and Cher's "All I Ever Need Is You" provided an ironically cheerful soundtrack.

 

The backlash was swift and severe. Actor Hugh Grant led a chorus of criticism, with creators across various disciplines viewing the ad as tone-deaf at best and hostile at worst. The timing couldn't have been more unfortunate, coinciding with widespread anxiety about AI's impact on creative industries. For a company long celebrated as a champion of creators, the message landed like a betrayal.

 

However, what emerged as the most instructive aspect of this incident was Apple's response. Tor Myhren, the company's vice president of marketing communications, delivered a masterclass in corporate apology. Instead of defending the ad or suggesting critics had misunderstood its message, he acknowledged the misstep directly: "We missed the mark with this video, and we're sorry." His response reinforced Apple's commitment to supporting creators while taking full responsibility for the miscalculation.

 

The incident serves as a compelling case study in both marketing missteps and effective crisis management. In an age where companies must navigate increasingly complex cultural conversations about technology and creativity, Apple's experience demonstrates that sometimes the most powerful response is also the simplest: a straightforward acknowledgment of error and a genuine apology.

 

NOTE: This is an extract of the chapter-opening vignette that appears exclusively in Chapter 16 of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, by Bovee and Thill (Pearson).

 

 

 

Business communication instructors and their students can step into the future of business communication with the new, groundbreaking 16th edition of Business Communication Today by Courtland Bovee and John Thill—where artificial intelligence meets time-tested principles. For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seamlessly integrated into every chapter, making this the first business communication textbook on the market to offer comprehensive AI coverage.

 

Neuroscience Meets Business Communication Education

 

This text integrates research-based principles from neuroscience to enhance learning.  This innovative approach aligns with how the brain learns, retains, and applies information, transforming how business communication is taught and mastered. Imagine students who don’t just memorize concepts but confidently apply them. With engagement soaring and retention deepening, your classroom is where communication skills are mastered for life. Give your students the neuroscience advantage. Join leading colleges and universities already seeing remarkable results with our neuroscience-based approach.

 

Preview of Part II: Chapters 4-6, Business Communication Today, 16th Edition

Chapters 4-6 teach the three-step writing process, integrating AI for planning, writing, and completing messages.

 

Part II of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, guides readers through the essential three-step writing process—planning, writing, and completing messages—with an innovative focus on artificial intelligence (AI). These chapters deliver a modern, practical approach to mastering professional communication while leveraging cutting-edge tools that prepare students for the future of work.

 

 

Chapter 4: Planning Business Messages  

 

This chapter emphasizes the importance of analyzing situations, understanding audiences, and organizing ideas effectively. AI’s transformative role is highlighted, showing students how to use generative AI tools to analyze data, anticipate audience needs, and outline communication strategies. Real-world examples demonstrate how AI accelerates information gathering, identifies patterns in audience behavior, and tailors communication strategies to specific goals. The chapter equips instructors with practical exercises to teach students both critical thinking and the application of AI in crafting communication plans.

 

Chapter 5: Writing Business Messages  

 

Focusing on clarity, tone, and credibility, this chapter helps students develop polished, audience-centered messages. AI’s collaborative potential is a key theme, offering examples of how tools like AI-powered editors enhance grammar, tone, and style. Students learn to balance AI’s efficiency with their personal voice, ensuring professionalism and authenticity in their writing. Instructors benefit from step-by-step guidance, adaptable activities, and examples of how AI streamlines the drafting process without sacrificing creativity or accuracy.

 

Chapter 6: Completing Business Messages  

 

This chapter covers the critical final steps of revising, proofreading, and distributing messages. It highlights AI’s ability to refine readability, suggest improvements, and ensure consistency in branding and tone. Students discover how to evaluate AI-generated content critically and integrate it seamlessly into their own work. Practical case studies illustrate how AI accelerates completion while maintaining human oversight.

 

Part II empowers instructors with a contemporary, AI-integrated approach to teaching business communication, aligning with students’ needs in a fast-evolving digital landscape. With its clear structure, actionable insights, and focus on future-ready skills, this textbook is a must-have for today’s classrooms.

 

Chapters 4-6 of Business Communication Today are exceptionally easy to teach from due to their clear structure, actionable insights, and integration of AI applications. Each chapter offers step-by-step guidance, relatable examples, and engaging activities that help students master the three-step writing process. The content seamlessly balances foundational communication principles with modern AI tools, ensuring relevance for today’s learners. 

 

MyLab enhances the teaching experience with interactive resources, personalized assessments, and instructor tools that simplify course management. Together, the textbook and MyLab provide a dynamic, adaptable teaching platform that empowers educators and supports students in developing essential, future-ready communication skills.

What Is Your Business Communication Instructor Profile? Take the Test and See

Unlock your unique teaching strengths and elevate your business communication course with personalized guidance. This concise 10-question assessment helps you pinpoint your instructional approach and highlight areas for growth. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the role, this tool will empower you to refine your teaching methods and better prepare your students for the demands of the modern workplace.

 

About This Assessment

 

Quick and Focused: 10 questions exploring your teaching philosophy and methods.

 

Immediate Insights: Receive actionable recommendations based on your responses.

 

Completion time: approximately 5-7 minutes

 

Start the Quiz Now! Write down your answer to each question.

 

Quiz Questions 

 

Q1: Teaching Goals

 

What is the primary focus of your teaching?

 

A) Using cutting-edge tools like AI and social media

 

B) Making communication relevant to students' real-world applications

 

C) Building strong foundations with pre-made tools and assessments

 

Q2: Approach to Technology in Communication

 

How do you feel about integrating AI tools into your curriculum?

 

A) Enthusiastic—I actively teach it as part of my course.

 

B) Curious—I’m exploring how to best integrate it into lessons.

 

C) Hesitant—I prefer simpler tools that don’t disrupt traditional learning.

 

Q3: Curriculum Design

 

How often do you refresh your course materials?

 

A) Every semester—I seek the latest tools and trends.

 

B) Every few years—I focus on relevance but balance updates with consistency.

 

C) Rarely—I use tried-and-true resources.

 

Q4: Biggest Teaching Challenge

 

What is the most significant challenge you face in teaching business communication?

 

A) Keeping up with evolving technologies and trends

 

B) Engaging students in interactive and real-world scenarios

 

C) Finding reliable and ready-to-use teaching resources 

 

Q5: Classroom Activities

 

What type of classroom activities do you most often include?

 

A) AI-driven projects and digital media assignments

 

B) Role-playing scenarios and case studies

 

C) Pre-made exercises, quizzes, and assessments

 

Q6: Student Engagement

 

How do you ensure students stay engaged with the material?

 

A) Incorporating digital tools and innovative approaches

 

B) Emphasizing real-world examples and teamwork

 

C) Using structured assignments with clear instructions

 

Q7: Real-World Applications

 

How do you incorporate real-world communication examples into your course?

 

A) Through digital media projects and AI integrations

 

B) By analyzing case studies and conducting interactive discussions

 

C) By using pre-packaged textbook examples and templates

 

Q8: Preferred Instructor Support

 

Which type of instructor support do you value the most?

 

A) Access to digital resources like video tutorials and AI-ready tools

 

B) Real-world case studies and active learning exercises

 

C) Pre-made test banks and lesson plans for quick implementation

 

Q9: Measuring Success

 

How do you assess whether your teaching approach is effective?

 

A) By how well students adapt to new communication tools and trends

 

B) By students’ ability to apply concepts in practical, real-world situations

 

C) By students' grades and performance on structured assessments

 

Q10: Course Objectives

 

What’s your ultimate objective for your students?

 

A) To prepare them for cutting-edge technologies and modern communication challenges

 

B) To equip them with practical skills for real-world business scenarios

 

C) To ensure they master core concepts and meet academic standards

 

Scoring

 

To determine your teaching profile, identify which letter you chose most frequently. Then, review the section below to determine your profile.

 

Most "A" Responses: Digital Innovation Leader

 

Profile: You are at the forefront of adopting new technologies. You prioritize incorporating AI tools and preparing students for future communication challenges.

 

Example Approach: You might use AI-powered tools to simulate real-time crisis management scenarios or client negotiations, or assign collaborative digital media projects.

 

Business Communication Today stands as a digital innovation leader by seamlessly integrating the latest technologies, including AI-driven communication tools and virtual platforms, into its content. It equips instructors and students with strategies for adapting to evolving communication tools such as collaborative digital media and AI-enhanced simulations. The text also emphasizes preparing students for future communication challenges, such as managing virtual teams and utilizing generative AI in content creation. By fostering digital fluency and innovation, the book ensures learners are well-prepared to navigate and lead in a tech-driven professional landscape​

 

Most "B" Responses: Experiential Learning Guide

 

Profile: You emphasize hands-on practical skills and immersive learning. You aim to connect learning to real-world application.

 

Example Approach: You would likely use case studies and real-world scenarios followed by interactive group discussions and feedback sessions.

 

Business Communication Today excels as an experiential learning guide by offering a robust array of real-world scenarios, interactive case studies, and hands-on exercises. These include simulations of client negotiations, crisis communication drills, and collaborative group projects. The book emphasizes the practical application of communication principles, ensuring students connect theoretical knowledge to workplace realities. By focusing on immersive learning experiences, the text helps students develop critical skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and effective decision-making, creating a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application​.

 

Most "C" Responses: Strategic Resource Optimizer

 

Profile: You rely on structured teaching resources, consistent assessments, and measurable learning outcomes. You seek high-quality materials that allow you to stay on track.

 

Example Approach: You'd prefer using structured lesson plans and pre-made assessments to ensure students are mastering core communication principles.

 

For strategic resource optimizers, Business Communication Today provides a wealth of structured resources, including customizable lesson plans, clear learning objectives, and pre-made assessments. Its focus on measurable learning outcomes allows instructors to track progress effectively while ensuring students master core communication principles. By offering concise frameworks and templates for communication tasks, the text supports efficient instruction and learning. Additionally, its emphasis on practical tools and organized content ensures students acquire essential skills systematically, maximizing teaching effectiveness with minimal preparation time​.

 

Mixed Responses

 

For instructors with mixed responses across the three categories, Business Communication Today, 16th Edition offers a flexible, comprehensive approach that integrates digital innovation, experiential learning, and structured resources. The text provides adaptable tools to meet diverse instructional needs, from integrating cutting-edge AI and digital media strategies to offering immersive case studies and real-world simulations.

 

Simultaneously, its well-organized lesson plans and clear learning objectives ensure structure and measurable outcomes. This versatility allows instructors to customize their teaching to balance innovation, engagement, and efficiency, making it an ideal resource for varied instructional priorities

 

If your responses are evenly distributed or do not primarily fit one of the above categories:

 

Revisit your answers to identify any emerging patterns.

 

Reflect on your personal teaching philosophy and approach.

 

Business Communication Today,16th Edition provides tailored solutions for every teaching style. Contact your local Pearson representative to learn more about how Pearson can support your specific needs or visit to order an examination copy of the text.

The Digital Evolution of Business Communication Education: A Roadmap to Professional and Institutional Excellence

The adoption of Business Communication Today, Sixteenth Edition, provides instructors with a comprehensive toolkit that extends far beyond traditional textbook benefits. This resource serves as a cornerstone for professional development, classroom excellence, curriculum enhancement, and institutional advancement within today's rapidly evolving educational landscape.

 

Professional Enhancement and Credibility

 

Instructors who adopt Business Communication Today position themselves as thought leaders at the forefront of their field. The textbook's foundation in cutting-edge, peer-reviewed research and contemporary global business practices elevates an instructor's academic profile and professional standing. Notably, the textbook benefits from an Advisory Board of distinguished professors with extensive backgrounds in artificial intelligence and business communication, who meticulously reviewed and refined the manuscript to ensure its alignment with both current and emerging technological trends. By incorporating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning applications in business communication analysis, and advanced digital collaboration tools, instructors demonstrate their commitment to staying current with industry developments. The textbook's integration of post-pandemic communication strategies, hybrid work models, and virtual team management principles reinforces the instructor's expertise in modern business practices. Additionally, the inclusion of quantum computing implications for business security and Web3 technologies positions instructors as pioneers in emerging business communication paradigms.

 

Classroom Excellence and Student Engagement

 

The textbook transforms traditional teaching approaches through its robust, multi-modal learning system. Beyond standardized interactive exercises and case studies, it offers immersive learning experiences through virtual reality simulations that recreate workplace scenarios, AI-powered writing assistants that provide personalized feedback, and real-time collaboration tools that foster teamwork. The learning platform intelligently adapts to diverse learning styles by providing personalized learning paths, ensuring that visual learners, auditory learners, and those who prefer hands-on experience can achieve their full potential. Comprehensive cross-cultural communication modules, including neurodiversity awareness and generational communication patterns, prepare students for the interconnected, global business world. The platform now includes augmented reality features that allow students to practice presentation skills in simulated environments with real-time feedback.

 

Strategic Course Positioning

 

In today's competitive academic environment, Business Communication Today helps establish the course as an essential component of any business program. The textbook's alignment with industry certifications and professional standards increases its value to students pursuing diverse career paths. Its coverage of emerging trends like blockchain communication, metaverse interactions, and sustainable business communication practices ensures the course remains relevant. The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance communication principles makes the course particularly valuable for modern business education. The addition of cryptocurrency communication protocols and decentralized organization management strategies further enhances its forward-looking approach.

 

Career Advancement Opportunities

 

Instructors leveraging this textbook can document tangible improvements in student outcomes through sophisticated analytics and assessment tools. The platform's advanced analytics provide detailed insights into student performance, enabling instructors to demonstrate their teaching effectiveness quantitatively. Success stories and case studies from the textbook can be referenced in tenure applications, showing how instructors apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. The textbook now includes guidance on communication strategies for emerging roles like Chief Metaverse Officer and Sustainability Communications Director, preparing students for future career opportunities.

 

Student Success and Satisfaction

 

Modern students expect educational materials that reflect their digital reality. The textbook meets these expectations through integration with professional tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and advanced project management platforms. Students appreciate learning communication strategies that directly apply to their internships and entry-level positions. The inclusion of personal branding, social media management, and digital portfolio development makes the course immediately relevant. New modules on influencer communication ethics and digital wellness strategies address contemporary professional challenges.

 

Professional Development and Innovation

 

The textbook serves as a continuous professional development resource for instructors. Regular updates on emerging communication technologies and business trends keep instructors informed about industry developments. The instructor community platform facilitates global collaboration, enabling the exchange of best practices and innovative teaching methods. The addition of quantum-safe communication protocols and artificial emotional intelligence considerations provides cutting-edge professional development opportunities.

 

Institutional Excellence

 

Departments using Business Communication Today signal their commitment to excellence in business education. The textbook's comprehensive coverage supports accreditation requirements and program reviews. Its emphasis on ethical communication practices and corporate social responsibility aligns with institutional goals. New sections on digital citizenship and responsible innovation demonstrate institutional commitment to ethical technology adoption.

 

Efficient Course Management

 

The textbook's integrated learning management system streamlines course administration through automated grading features, plagiarism detection tools, and progress tracking capabilities. The platform's integration with video conferencing tools facilitates seamless hybrid and online learning experiences. New features include AI-powered discussion moderators and automated feedback systems that help manage large-scale courses effectively.

 

Enhanced Market Value

 

Instructors proficient in Business Communication Today position themselves as experts in modern business communication. Their familiarity with the platform's advanced features makes them valuable resources for curriculum development and program modernization. The textbook's widespread adoption means expertise with its systems is highly transferable. New certifications in digital communication management and virtual team leadership further enhance instructor marketability.

 

The textbook addresses contemporary challenges in business communication, such as managing communication in remote and hybrid environments, navigating generational differences, and implementing inclusive practices. Its coverage of data visualization, storytelling with analytics, and executive communication prepares students for modern business roles. The addition of modules on quantum computing implications for business communication security and artificial emotional intelligence in customer service provides cutting-edge preparation for emerging business challenges.

 

By embracing Business Communication Today, instructors and institutions gain access to a comprehensive educational ecosystem that enhances teaching effectiveness, professional development, and career prospects. The platform's continuous evolution ensures that both instructors and students remain at the cutting edge of business communication practices, making it an invaluable resource for modern business education in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

From Plagiarism to Prosperity: How Grammarly Revolutionized Digital Writing by Bovee and Thill

Digital Writing by Bovee and ThillGrammarly originated from Max Lytvyn's work on plagiarism detection software, where he realized many writers plagiarize due to struggles with effective communication. In 2009, Lytvyn, Alex Shevchenko, and Dmytro Lider founded Grammarly to help people master English grammar and write more confidently.

 

Initially focused on basic grammar checking, Grammarly has evolved significantly. Today, the software offers comprehensive writing assistance, including tone analysis, style recommendations, paraphrasing capabilities, and collaborative document creation. The platform has become particularly valuable in the business sector, where companies utilize it to maintain consistent brand voice and ensure adherence to corporate style guides.

 

The company's reach has expanded dramatically, now serving approximately 30 million daily users. This success underscores the critical importance of effective written communication in business contexts. From routine emails to crucial business proposals, the quality of written communication can significantly impact professional relationships and organizational reputation.

 

While Grammarly's AI-powered tools provide valuable assistance with brainstorming, clarity, and prose refinement, they complement rather than replace human critical thinking and creativity. The platform's widespread adoption demonstrates the universal need for clear, confident communication in professional settings.

 

The company's success story reflects broader trends in modern business communication, where effective writing has become increasingly crucial for professional success. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and damaged relationships, while well-crafted messages can build trust and enhance organizational reputation. Grammarly's mission to facilitate easier, more confident, and more successful communication has resonated with millions of users worldwide, from students to professionals, making it a significant player in the digital writing assistance landscape.

 

NOTE: This is a summarization of the chapter-opening vignette that appears exclusively in Chapter 1 of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, by Bovee and Thill (Pearson).

 

Business communication instructors and their students can step into the future of business communication with the new, groundbreaking 16th edition of Business Communication Today by Courtland Bovee and John Thill—where artificial intelligence meets time-tested principles. For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seamlessly integrated into every chapter, making this the first business communication textbook on the market to offer comprehensive AI coverage.

 

Neuroscience Meets Business Communication Education

 

This text integrates research-based principles from neuroscience to enhance learning. This innovative approach aligns with how the brain learns, retains, and applies information, transforming how business communication is taught and mastered. Imagine students who don’t just memorize concepts but confidently apply them. With engagement soaring and retention deepening, your classroom is where communication skills are mastered for life. Give your students the neuroscience advantage. Join leading colleges and universities already seeing remarkable results with our neuroscience-based approach.

Preview of Part I, Chapters 1-3, of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition

Business Communication Today (16th Edition) begins with an exploration of foundational concepts in professional communication while incorporating the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI). This modern focus equips instructors with tools to prepare students for the evolving demands of business communication.

 

Chapter 1: Professional Business Communication in the Age of AI

 

This chapter underscores the vital role of effective communication in individual careers and organizational success. It introduces the transformative potential of generative AI in crafting messages, offering speed and precision while emphasizing the need for ethical and strategic human oversight. Students learn how to use AI as a collaborative writing partner, ensuring professionalism and audience-centered communication. Through case studies, the chapter illustrates AI's ability to optimize tone, clarity, and structure while cautioning against over-reliance. This pragmatic integration of AI aligns with contemporary communication needs, empowering students with a dual focus on technology and human connection.

 

Chapter 2: Collaboration, Interpersonal Communication, and Business Etiquette

 

Collaboration and interpersonal skills take center stage in this chapter, as students are guided on working effectively within diverse teams and across virtual platforms. Practical advice on using AI tools for collaborative writing and feedback is provided, with special emphasis on maintaining constructive tone and inclusivity. The chapter introduces advanced concepts like managing virtual teams and leveraging AI for real-time feedback to enhance team dynamics. Business etiquette is explored through modern lenses, highlighting the importance of professional behavior in both traditional and digital environments. This chapter provides a robust framework for managing interpersonal relationships in increasingly globalized workplaces.

 

Chapter 3: Communication Challenges in a Diverse, Global Marketplace

 

Chapter 3 tackles the intricacies of cross-cultural communication and the opportunities it brings to global business environments. Cultural competency, a central theme, is expanded to include practical strategies for adapting to diverse workplace interactions. AI's role in bridging linguistic and cultural gaps is showcased, such as using translation tools and sentiment analysis to improve clarity and understanding. Case studies demonstrate how cultural dynamics influence messaging and decision-making, preparing students to navigate challenges in international and multicultural contexts.

 

Overall, these chapters blend timeless communication principles with cutting-edge AI applications, ensuring relevance for today’s business environments. The textbook’s AI focus, combined with its foundational insights, makes it an indispensable resource for instructors aiming to prepare students for the future of business communication.


Business Communication Today is exceptionally user-friendly for teaching due to its structured organization, practical focus, and integrated MyLab resources. Each chapter includes clear learning objectives, real-world examples, and actionable insights, seamlessly connecting theory to practice. The integration of contemporary topics, such as AI applications and global communication challenges, ensures relevance for today’s learners. MyLab enhances the teaching experience with interactive tools, assessments, and customizable resources that promote active learning and student engagement. The text’s modular design supports flexibility, enabling educators to tailor lessons to specific course needs. With rich supplements and MyLab, it’s an ideal tool for modern instruction.

Beyond Basic Bots: Kickfin’s AI Strategy Redefines Business Communication

AI Strategy In the fast-paced world of hospitality, the end of a long shift traditionally meant one more tedious task: tip distribution. Enter Kickfin, an Austin-based startup that's transforming this nightly ritual with a seamless digital solution. Their platform enables instant tip payments directly to employees' bank accounts, eliminating the safety risks of cash handling and the frustrations of delayed prepaid card systems.

 

But Kickfin's innovation extends beyond just digital payments. Under the leadership of VP of Operations Larisa Thomas, the company has embraced AI technology to solve another critical challenge in the hospitality industry: 24/7 customer support. Recognizing that restaurants often need assistance during unconventional hours, Kickfin implemented Forethought's GenAI-based support system to provide round-the-clock assistance without the operational complexity of staffing night shifts.

 

What makes Thomas's approach particularly noteworthy is her perspective on AI implementation. Rather than viewing it merely as a cost-cutting measure, she sees it as a pathway to service enhancement. The AI system doesn't just process more tickets faster – it handles customer interactions with consistent patience and professionalism, even in high-stress situations. This approach has led to thousands of successfully resolved support queries, with the system becoming more sophisticated over time.

 

Thomas's vision for AI in customer service challenges traditional metrics. Instead of focusing solely on quantitative measures like call volume, she emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and customer satisfaction. This holistic approach reflects a broader truth about technology in business: the goal isn't just to work faster, but to work better, creating more value for both employees and customers.

 

NOTE: This is an summarization of the chapter-opening vignette that appears exclusively in Chapter 10 of Business Communication Today, 16th Edition, by Bovee and Thill (Pearson).

 

Business communication instructors and their students can step into the future of business communication with the new, groundbreaking 16th edition of Business Communication Today by Courtland Bovee and John Thill—where artificial intelligence meets time-tested principles. For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) is seamlessly integrated into every chapter, making this the first business communication textbook on the market to offer comprehensive AI coverage.

 

Neuroscience Meets Business Communication Education

 

This text integrates research-based principles from neuroscience to enhance learning.  This innovative approach aligns with how the brain learns, retains, and applies information, transforming how business communication is taught and mastered. Imagine students who don’t just memorize concepts but confidently apply them. With engagement soaring and retention deepening, your classroom is where communication skills are mastered for life. Give your students the neuroscience advantage. Join leading colleges and universities already seeing remarkable results with our neuroscience-based approach.
 

An Instructor Quiz on AI’s Role in Digital, Social, and Visual Media

The rise of digital, social, and visual media has fundamentally transformed how businesses communicate with their audiences and build meaningful connections. To prepare students for success in this fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape, it’s essential that business communication textbooks address the critical skills needed to navigate these mediums effectively. From crafting impactful digital messages to leveraging social platforms and creating compelling visuals, today’s professionals require a robust foundation.

 

This quiz helps you evaluate whether your current textbook covers the essential AI-driven tools and strategies students need to succeed. Answer the following 20 “yes” or “no” questions to see how your textbook measures up in preparing students for the future of business communication.

 

1. Does your textbook explain how AI tools optimize email subject lines for engagement and clarity?  

 

2. Does your textbook show how AI automates email drafting and improves tone and readability?  

 

3. Does your textbook include how AI-driven messaging systems enhance collaboration and productivity?  

 

4. Does your textbook highlight how AI analytics help track and improve digital media performance?  

 

5. Does your textbook discuss how AI generates audience-specific digital content efficiently?  

 

6. Does your textbook explain how AI tools assist in creating, scheduling, and managing social media posts?

 

7. Does your textbook demonstrate how AI analyzes social media engagement metrics to refine strategies?  

 

8. Does your textbook include guidance on using AI for sentiment analysis in social media monitoring?  

 

9. Does your textbook show how AI supports A/B testing to evaluate and improve social media content?  

 

10. Does your textbook explore how AI tools enhance influencer outreach and campaign management?  

 

11. Does your textbook explain how AI generates visual content, such as infographics, tailored to audience needs?  

 

12. Does your textbook demonstrate how AI streamlines the creation of visually appealing slides and presentations?  

 

13. Does your textbook include examples of AI tools that assist with data visualization for reports and presentations?  

 

14. Does your textbook teach how AI can create culturally sensitive and inclusive visual content?  

 

15. Does your textbook explore the role of AI in simplifying video production for digital media?  

 

16. Does your textbook explain how AI tools improve accessibility with features like captions and alt text for visuals?  

 

17. Does your textbook discuss how AI identifies trends and patterns in social media data?  

 

18. Does your textbook highlight ethical considerations of using AI in social media and digital marketing?  

 

19. Does your textbook show how AI personalizes social media responses for customer engagement?  

 

20. Does your textbook provide case studies or examples of AI’s role in creating impactful digital, social, and visual media?  

 

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, it’s time to face reality: your textbook is out of date and failing to keep pace with today’s business communication demands.

 

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven landscape, students require a textbook that not only keeps pace with innovation but empowers them to leverage AI as a transformative tool. Imagine the impact of an approach that seamlessly integrates cutting-edge AI concepts into your course, equipping your students with the practical skills and forward-thinking mindset needed to excel in the real world. Elevate your curriculum and set your students apart by preparing them to thrive in an AI-powered future.

 

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