Question 1: Convergence, according to our text on page 19, is the process of meeting or uniting in a common interest or focus. It could be the combination of multiple products into a single product, but in the world of mass media there are two main communication and media processes; content and distribution. Our text, The Dynamics of Mass Communication, talks about what is called corporate convergence. Author Joseph Dominick says corporate convergence would involve media companies focused on providing content (film, television and music studios) acquiring companies designed to distribute content (cable and satellite companies). A second convergence process is called operational convergence. This is where several media companies in the same market merge their business operations into one. This is a situation where several media organizations such as radio, television and newspapers could merge under common ownership. This provides greater efficiency for the owner as they can have their staff get the job done through all forms of mass communication, reducing staffing needs and saving money. The downside, however, is that it limits the independence of media companies, resulting in a reduced diverse selection of information sources and viewpoints. The third type of convergence can be found on page 21 of our text. It's called device convergence. It's about creating devices intended for multitasking, i.e. equipped with multiple functions. Device convergence allows consumers the ability to purchase a product, usually electronic, that has the ability to function in a variety of ways, potentially saving money, space, and even time for its owner. You can see examples of convergence.... .. middle of paper ......continues to have a negative effect on print as well, especially with the popularity of e-readers like the Nook and Kindle. Internet technology has rendered obsolete some technologies that previously provided mass communication and replaced them with newer, more efficient means of creating and distributing communication. Printers, cable modems, and computing technologies have provided both developers and consumers of information with the tools needed to speed up the processes in which we send and receive that information. Communication technology will continue to push the boundaries of what we believe is possible. Dominick, Joseph R. The Dynamics of Mass Media in the Digital Age. McGraw-Hill, 2009. Works Cited Dominick, Joseph R. The Dynamics of Mass Media in the Digital Age. McGraw-Hill, 2009.