




































    

 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES, VIRTUAL COLLABORATION 

PLATFORMS AND JOB UNDERSTANDING AMONG STAFF OF AKWA 

IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY 
 

Philomena Effiong Umoren 

Department of Mass Communication, Akwa Ibom State University 

Email: philoumoren12@gmail.com 

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16314811 

 

Abstract: This study examined the communication strategies and utilisation of AI-enhanced cloud-based 

collaboration platforms among remote workers in Akwa Ibom State, with particular focus on their influence on 

job understanding. The theoretical framework for this study was the Media Richness Theory (MRT). The study 

evaluates organisational communication strategies, assessing AI platform usage, and analysing their impact on 

job clarity. A survey research design was employed, targeting 388 pensionable academic staff at Akwa Ibom State 

University. Using the Australian Bureau of Statistics Sample Size Calculator, a sample of 193 was selected; 113 

valid responses were analysed after data screening. Findings showed that 83.8% of respondents disagreed that 

regular virtual meetings were used for communication, and 82.4% disagreed on the effective use of email. 

However, 71.8% agreed that structured feedback channels were in place, while 69.7% acknowledged the official 

use of instant messaging apps. Regarding AI-enhanced tools, 69.7% reported non-use of cloud platforms, and 

58.5% indicated absence of AI features. Despite this, 62.7% received training, and 74.7% agreed these platforms 

improved communication and document sharing. Additionally, 78.2% affirmed that supervisor feedback clarified 

job expectations, while 80.9% disagreed that virtual briefings enhanced understanding. Notably, 69.7% stated 

that platform dashboards improved understanding of project goals, and 66.2% agreed that collaboration tools 

reduced miscommunication. The study recommends adopting structured communication strategies, investing in 

AI-integrated platforms, continuous staff training, and promoting feedback-driven communication to enhance job 

clarity among remote workers. 

Keywords: Communication Strategies, Virtual Collaboration Platforms, Job Understanding, Akwa Ibom State 

University. 

 

Introduction 

Collaborations in organisational communication has undergone a remarkable transformation in today’s dynamic 

work environment. This is driven by technological advancements and the shift towards remote as well as hybrid 

work (Okoli, Okpongkpong & Ukpong, 2021). As organisations strive to maintain productivity and cohesion in 

geographically dispersed teams, the integration of digital tools and platforms has become not only essential but 

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 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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47 | A m e r i c a n  J o u r n a l  o f  A r t s  a n d  C o m m u n i c a t i o n  

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revolutionary. One striking example is the increasing reliance on AI-enhanced, cloud-based collaboration 

platforms, which promise to bridge the communication gap among remote workers, particularly in regions with 

emerging digital economies such as Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The capacity of these technologies to facilitate 

seamless communication, foster understanding of job roles, and ensure effective collaboration across distances 

presents a compelling area for empirical inquiry. 

Communication strategies refer to the deliberate methods and practices employed by organisations or individuals 

to convey messages effectively, achieve mutual understanding, and accomplish set goals (Mfon & Uford, 2024; 

Akai, Akpan-Atata & Udoh, 2025). In a remote work context, strategic communication becomes even more 

critical, as it compensates for the absence of face-to-face interactions and physical workplace cues (Akarika, 

Umoren & Ikon, 2021). These strategies may include the use of synchronous tools like video conferencing and 

asynchronous channels like emails and messaging platforms. Effective communication strategies are linked to 

improved employee engagement, productivity, and clarity in role expectations (Downs & Adrian, 2012). 

Moreover, remote work settings demand adaptive communication strategies that account for technological 

limitations, cultural diversity, and time zone differences (Walden, 2021). 

AI-enhanced, cloud-based collaboration platforms are digital environments that utilise artificial intelligence to 

support real-time teamwork and data sharing over the internet. These platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, 

and Google Workspace, are equipped with AI features including automated meeting transcription, intelligent task 

allocation, and predictive typing, all designed to enhance communication efficiency and user experience (Uford, 

Charles & Etuk, 2022). The cloud infrastructure ensures accessibility from any location, while AI capabilities 

facilitate streamlined workflow and intelligent communication support (Luo et al., 2023). These platforms have 

become indispensable for remote teams, offering scalable, reliable, and intelligent solutions for communication 

and project management. 

Job understanding refers to an employee's clear comprehension of their roles, responsibilities, performance 

expectations, and how their work contributes to organisational objectives. In remote work settings, achieving such 

clarity can be challenging due to limited physical supervision and interaction (Uford, 2017). Lack of job 

understanding can lead to confusion, reduced productivity, and job dissatisfaction. However, when 

communication is strategic and technology is optimally utilised, remote workers are better positioned to 

understand and align with their job roles (Gajendran & Joshi, 2012). Enhancing job understanding among remote 

employees is crucial for maintaining operational effectiveness and employee morale. 

The interplay between communication strategies, AI-enhanced platforms, and job understanding has been the 

focus of various academic inquiries. Previous studies have underscored that effective digital communication 

strategies significantly influence role clarity and job performance among remote workers (Maduka et al., 2018). 

Additionally, research by Waizenegger et al. (2020) highlights that cloud-based collaboration tools, especially 

those augmented with AI capabilities, can foster a sense of presence and collaboration among remote teams, 

thereby mitigating the isolation often associated with remote work. However, they also point out that the efficacy 

of these tools largely depends on how well they are integrated into organisational communication strategies. 

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Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

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Furthermore, Azizi et al. (2023) found that while AI tools offer enhanced communication functionalities, they do 

not automatically translate to improved job understanding unless paired with well-defined communication 

frameworks and continuous feedback mechanisms. Most existing studies have focused on developed economies, 

with limited attention given to how these dynamics play out in emerging contexts like Akwa Ibom State, where 

infrastructural and digital literacy challenges may affect adoption and usage. 

Despite the growing body of literature on digital communication and remote work, there remains a significant 

gap in understanding how these concepts converge in sub-national contexts within developing countries, 

particularly in Nigeria. In Akwa Ibom State, where digital infrastructure is still evolving, the integration of AI-

enhanced collaboration tools and strategic communication remains underexplored. Existing studies often 

generalise findings from technologically advanced regions, thereby overlooking contextual challenges and 

opportunities in regions with distinct socio-economic and technological realities. This study seeks to address this 

gap by examining how communication strategies and AI-enhanced cloud-based platforms influence job 

understanding among remote workers in Akwa Ibom State. By doing so, the research aims to contribute to a 

nuanced understanding of remote work efficacy in emerging digital economies and provide actionable insights 

for organisations operating in similar contexts. 

Statement of the Problem 

In the wake of global transitions to remote and hybrid work, accelerated by events such as the COVID-19 

pandemic, organisations around the world have increasingly relied on digital technologies to maintain business 

continuity. However, in many developing regions, this transition has exposed underlying challenges in 

communication, technological infrastructure, and workforce adaptability. One of the most pressing issues faced 

by workers in this region is the difficulty in achieving effective communication and clear job understanding, 

which are essential for productivity, performance, and job satisfaction. Despite the proliferation of digital tools, 

many employees continue to struggle with unclear expectations, miscommunication, and a lack of alignment with 

organisational goals, all of which negatively impact work outcomes. 

Scholars have recognised these challenges and have examined the role of communication strategies and digital 

collaboration platforms in bridging the communication gap among remote workers. Various studies have explored 

how artificial intelligence and cloud-based tools can improve real-time interaction, support teamwork, and foster 

a sense of inclusion among dispersed teams. Others have investigated the role of communication competence and 

leadership in enhancing remote team performance. While these studies have yielded valuable insights, they have 

primarily focused on organisations in technologically advanced environments where digital literacy, 

infrastructure, and access are relatively stable. As a result, their findings often fall short when applied to regions 

such as Akwa Ibom State, where the local context presents unique socio-economic and technological challenges 

that are yet to be adequately addressed in existing literature. 

This gap presents an urgent need to understand how communication strategies and AI-enhanced cloud-based 

collaboration platforms function in a context where digital transformation is still unfolding. It is particularly 

crucial to examine how these tools influence job understanding in remote work settings that are constrained by 

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 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJAC; mail: topacademicjournals@gmail.com 

 
 

 

 

49 | A m e r i c a n  J o u r n a l  o f  A r t s  a n d  C o m m u n i c a t i o n  

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inconsistent internet access, limited technological exposure, and varying levels of employee readiness. Given 

these challenges and knowledge gaps, a striking question arises: To what extent do communication strategies and 

AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms influence job understanding among remote workers in Akwa 

Ibom State? 

 

Objectives of the Study 

The objectives of this study were to: 

i. Examine the communication strategies adopted by organisations to facilitate remote work among employees 

in Akwa Ibom State. 

ii. Assess the extent to which AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms are utilised by remote workers 

in Akwa Ibom State. 

iii. Investigate the influence of communication strategies on job understanding among remote workers. 

iv. Determine the relationship between the use of AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms and job 

understanding among remote workers in Akwa Ibom State. 

Research Questions 

The study was guided by the following research questions: 

i. What communication strategies are employed by organisations to support remote work in Akwa Ibom State? 

ii. To what extent are AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms used by remote workers in Akwa Ibom 

State? 

iii. How do communication strategies affect job understanding among remote workers? 

iv. What is the relationship between the use of AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms and job 

understanding among remote workers in Akwa Ibom State? 

Review of Concepts 

Communication Strategies 

Communication strategies refer to the systematic approaches individuals or organisations adopt to exchange 

information effectively. In the context of organisational management, particularly remote work environments, 

these strategies play a central role in ensuring clarity, reducing ambiguity, and aligning team members towards 

shared goals. Effective communication strategies typically involve a combination of verbal and non-verbal cues, 

choice of communication channels, frequency of communication, and feedback mechanisms (Akarika, Umoren 

& Ikon, 2021). In remote work, where face-to-face interaction is absent, the strategic selection of digital tools 

becomes imperative to replicate the immediacy and effectiveness of traditional communication (Cardon & 

Marshall, 2022). Communication strategy in a virtual context therefore involves not only content delivery but 

also digital literacy, tone management, and platform-appropriate message formatting (Akarika, Umoren & Ikon, 

2021, Umoren & Ukpe, 2025). 

The effectiveness of communication strategies in remote work is significantly influenced by organisational 

culture, employee training, and the choice of communication technology. As virtual teams grow, asynchronous 

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Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

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tools like emails and forums, as well as synchronous tools such as video calls and chat applications, have become 

essential, especially in a post COVID-19 era (Okoli, Okpongkpong & Ukpong, 2021). Each strategy has its 

strengths and weaknesses; for instance, asynchronous tools provide flexibility but may delay feedback, while 

synchronous tools foster real-time engagement but require time coordination (Walden, 2021). The challenge lies 

in balancing these tools to match the needs of diverse remote teams. Furthermore, leadership communication 

styles have been found to influence team cohesion and job understanding significantly, particularly in 

decentralised teams working across time zones. 

Recent research highlights the importance of adaptability in communication strategies to suit changing 

technological landscapes and diverse work environments. For example, Alharthi and Khalil (2023) stress that 

strategic communication must now include emotional intelligence and cultural awareness to build trust and reduce 

isolation among remote workers. These insights underscore that communication in remote work is no longer just 

about transmitting information but about maintaining relationships, fostering collaboration, and sustaining 

motivation. Without well-developed communication strategies, remote teams are more prone to misalignment, 

role confusion, and disengagement—factors that severely impact productivity and job satisfaction. 

AI-Enhanced Cloud-Based Collaboration Platforms 

AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms are digital ecosystems that combine artificial intelligence (AI) 

with cloud computing to support team collaboration, communication, and productivity in real-time. These 

platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack, ResearchGate, Facebook and Google Workspace, use AI-

driven features like smart scheduling, automated transcription, chatbots, predictive text, and intelligent file 

organisation to streamline team workflows and decision-making (Luo et al., 2023; Akai & Uford, 2025; Akai, 

Uford & Udoh, 2025). The cloud-based nature ensures that users can access shared data and communication tools 

from any location, while AI enhancements improve efficiency, personalisation, and ease of use. For remote 

workers, these platforms have become indispensable, especially in coordinating tasks, managing meetings, and 

maintaining engagement without physical presence. 

Beyond basic communication, AI-enhanced platforms have reshaped how teams collaborate by offering advanced 

capabilities such as real-time language translation, virtual whiteboards, sentiment analysis, and workflow 

automation. These features enable cross-border teams to work more efficiently and inclusively. According to Liu, 

Zhang, and Guo (2022), these platforms significantly reduce the cognitive load on employees by automating 

routine tasks and providing intelligent suggestions, thus freeing up time for more strategic or creative work. This 

automation also minimises the risk of errors and improves data-driven decision-making in project execution. In 

this regard, AI tools are not merely supportive but increasingly central to how modern remote teams can function. 

Despite their benefits, challenges persist in the adoption and utilisation of these platforms, particularly in regions 

with inconsistent internet connectivity and limited digital infrastructure. in many parts of Africa, including 

Nigeria, for example, affordability, digital literacy, and infrastructure gaps pose significant barriers to effective 

use (Udegbunam, Igbokwe-Ibeto, C. J., & Nwafor, 2023). Furthermore, reliance on AI tools may inadvertently 

widen digital divides within organisations, where some employees may struggle with adapting to new 

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 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

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technologies. Therefore, the successful implementation of AI-enhanced collaboration platforms requires not only 

technological investment but also employee training, organisational readiness, and strategic alignment with 

communication goals. 

Job Understanding 

Job understanding refers to the degree to which an employee clearly comprehends their role, responsibilities, 

expectations, and how their work contributes to broader organisational goals. In remote work environments, 

where informal communication and real-time supervision are limited, achieving and sustaining job understanding 

becomes a significant challenge (Uford, 2017; Chales & Uford, 2023). Without physical presence or immediate 

access to supervisors, many remote workers report experiencing uncertainty about task expectations, performance 

standards, and even their standing within the organisation. According to Gajendran and Joshi (2012), role 

ambiguity is a critical barrier to performance and satisfaction in virtual teams, and addressing this ambiguity 

requires structured communication and clear documentation. 

Several studies have shown that job understanding in remote contexts is highly dependent on organisational 

communication quality and the availability of collaborative support systems. For example, when job roles are 

well-articulated during onboarding and continuously reinforced through feedback loops and regular updates, 

employees are more likely to remain aligned with organisational expectations (Maduka et al., 2018). Technology 

plays a critical role here: task management tools, shared dashboards, and AI-generated reports can all help 

reinforce understanding. However, the absence of contextual cues—such as body language, spontaneous peer 

conversations, and in-person meetings—can leave gaps in interpretation, making it harder for remote workers to 

fully grasp nuanced job expectations. 

Moreover, the increasing complexity of modern work, combined with distributed team structures, necessitates 

not just functional clarity but also relational understanding—knowing how one's role fits within the team and 

contributes to the bigger picture. Recent studies, such as those by Azizi et al. (2023) and: Akpan-Atata, Akai and 

Jimmy (2024), argue that AI and digital collaboration tools can support this process by providing visual work 

maps, project timelines, and intelligent summaries of team progress. However, these tools must be embedded in 

a culture of transparency, consistent leadership communication, and employee empowerment. Without this 

cultural and managerial scaffolding, even the most advanced tools may fail to ensure meaningful job 

understanding, particularly in under-resourced or transitional digital environments like Akwa Ibom State. 

Theoretical Framework 

This study is anchored on Media Richness Theory (MRT), which provides a theoretical basis for examining how 

communication media influence job understanding, particularly in digitally mediated work environments. 

Media Richness Theory was formulated by Daft and Lengel (1986) within the domain of organisational 

communication and information processing. It was developed to explain how managers and employees select 

communication media to reduce uncertainty and equivocality in decision-making. The theory categorises media 

along a continuum of richness, based on their ability to facilitate immediate feedback, convey multiple cues (such 

as tone and facial expression), use natural language, and allow for personal focus. The theory emerged during a 

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 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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period when organisations were increasingly grappling with how best to communicate in complex and dynamic 

work settings. 

The fundamental assumption of Media Richness Theory is that the effectiveness of communication depends on 

the degree to which the medium used can adequately convey information relative to the ambiguity or complexity 

of the task at hand. Rich media, such as face-to-face interaction or advanced digital platforms that incorporate 

video, voice, and real-time collaboration, are capable of transmitting nuanced information, enabling immediate 

feedback, and facilitating mutual understanding. These are considered most suitable for complex, ambiguous, or 

emotionally sensitive tasks. Lean media, such as written reports or standard emails, which lack immediacy and 

contextual cues, are best suited for simple, routine, and unambiguous communication. The theory asserts that 

mismatches such as using lean media for complex tasks can lead to misunderstanding, delayed decision-making, 

and decreased task performance. Therefore, effective communication requires deliberate alignment between task 

characteristics and media richness to ensure clarity, engagement, and accuracy in information processing. 

MRT is relevant to this study as it helps evaluate how the richness of AI-enhanced cloud-based platforms, 

combined with strategic communication practices, influences job understanding among remote workers in Akwa 

Ibom State. 

Methodology 

This study adopted a survey research design involving a population of 388 pensionable academic staff at Akwa 

Ibom State University, as reported by Usoro and Edeminam (2023). Using the Australian Bureau of Statistics 

(ABS) Sample Size Calculator, a sample size of 193 was determined based on a 95% confidence level and a 5% 

margin of error. Lecturers from the Obio Akpa Campus were selected through simple random sampling. Data 

were collected using a structured questionnaire. The structured questionnaire had responses measured on a 5-

point Likert scale ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). The reliability of the constructs was 

assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, yielding values of 0.882. 

Data Analysis and Presentation 

Out of the 193 questionnaires administered, 125 were returned over a period of two weeks. After data screening, 

12 questionnaires were excluded due to incompleteness or inconsistent answers, resulting in 113 usable responses. 

This yielded a usable response rate of 58.5%, which is acceptable for the statistical techniques applied in this 

study. Participants were informed that there were no right or wrong answers and were encouraged to respond 

honestly, with adequate time provided to complete the questionnaire. 

Table 1: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Communication Strategies Adopted by Organisations 

Items 
Strongly 

Agree 
Agree Disagree 

Strongly 

Disagree 
Total 

1. My organisation provides regular virtual 

meetings for team updates. 
14 (9.9%) 9 (6.3%) 

58 

(40.8%) 

61 

(43.0%) 
142 

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 American Journal of Arts and Communication 

Vol.10, Issue 4; July-August 2025; 

ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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53 | A m e r i c a n  J o u r n a l  o f  A r t s  a n d  C o m m u n i c a t i o n  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJAC 

2. Email is effectively used to disseminate official 

information. 

17 

(12.0%) 
8 (5.6%) 

64 

(45.1%) 

53 

(37.3%) 
142 

3. There is a structured channel for feedback and 

response. 

45 

(31.7%) 

57 

(40.1%) 

28 

(19.7%) 
12 (8.5%) 142 

4. Instant messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp) are 

officially used. 

51 

(35.9%) 

48 

(33.8%) 

27 

(19.0%) 

16 

(11.3%) 
142 

Source: Fieldwork, 2025. 

The data indicate that a majority of respondents disagreed that virtual meetings (83.8%) and emails (82.4%) are 

frequently used to communicate remote work information. However, fewer respondents (71.8%) affirmed the 

existence of structured feedback channels, while the adoption of instant messaging as an official tool was 

moderately accepted (69.7%). This suggests that while formal communication tools are widely used, there may 

be inconsistencies in adopting interactive and informal communication strategies. 

Table 2: Frequency and Percentage Distribution on the Use of AI-Enhanced Cloud-Based Collaboration 

Platforms 

Items 
Strongly 

Agree 
Agree Disagree 

Strongly 

Disagree 
Total 

1. My organisation uses cloud-based tools like 

Google Workspace/Teams. 
13 (9.2%) 

30 

(21.1%) 
52 (36.6%) 

47 

(33.1%) 
142 

2. AI features (e.g., smart replies, auto-

scheduling) are enabled. 

20 

(14.0%) 

38 

(26.8%) 
39 (27.5%) 

45 

(31.7%) 
142 

3. Training was provided on how to use these 

platforms. 

40 

(28.2%) 

49 

(34.5%) 
36 (25.4%) 

17 

(12.0%) 
142 

4. The platforms improve communication and 

document sharing. 
10 (7.0%) 

46 

(32.4%) 
60 (42.3%) 

26 

(18.3%) 
142 

Source: Fieldwork, 2025. 

The results show that 69.7% of respondents acknowledged cloud-based tools were not used in the institutions, 

while 58.5% reported the lack of integration of AI features. However, the level of training provided (62.7%) and 

satisfaction with communication and document sharing (74.7%) suggest moderate and low utilisation 

respectively. This indicates a lack of AI-enhanced platforms. 

Table 3: Frequency and Percentage Distribution on the Influence of Communication Strategies on Job 

Understanding 

Items 
Strongly 

Agree 
Agree Disagree 

Strongly 

Disagree 
Total 

1. I understand my responsibilities due to regular 

virtual briefings. 
9 (6.3%) 

18 

(12.7%) 

56 

(39.4%) 

59 

(41.5%) 
142 

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2. Feedback from supervisors helps clarify my 

job expectations. 

50 

(35.2%) 

61 

(43.0%) 

21 

(14.8%) 
10 (7.0%) 142 

3. Communication gaps often lead to confusion 

about my role. 

42 

(29.6%) 

48 

(33.8%) 

31 

(21.8%) 

21 

(14.8%) 
142 

4. Clear communication increases my 

productivity and task focus. 

58 

(40.8%) 

64 

(45.1%) 
12 (8.5%) 8 (5.6%) 142 

Source: Fieldwork, 2025 

A strong majority (80.9%) indicated that regular virtual briefings did not contribute to role clarity, and 78.2% 

agreed that supervisor feedback supports job understanding. Interestingly, 63.4% noted that communication gaps 

can cause confusion, confirming the vital role of effective communication. Overall, clear communication 

strategies appear to positively influence job understanding among remote workers. 

 

Table 4: Frequency and Percentage Distribution on Relationship between AI Platforms and Job 

Understanding 

Items 
Strongly 

Agree 
Agree Disagree 

Strongly 

Disagree 
Total 

1. The platform helps me track my 

responsibilities in real time. 

27 

(19.0%) 

13 

(9.2%) 

48 

(33.8%) 

54 

(38.0%) 
142 

2. AI tools clarify my task deadlines and 

performance indicators. 

33 

(23.2%) 

17 

(12.0%) 

40 

(28.2%) 

52 

(36.6%) 
142 

3. Collaboration tools reduce the need for follow-

up clarification. 

32 

(22.5%) 

16 

(11.3%) 

44 

(31.0%) 

50 

(35.2%) 
142 

4. I understand project goals better through 

platform dashboards. 

28 

(19.7%) 

43 

(30.3%) 

56 

(39.4%) 

15 

(10.6%) 
142 

Source: Fieldwork, 2025 

The results show that most respondents (71.8%) agreed that AI-enhanced platforms help them track 

responsibilities and understand deadlines (64.8%). Similarly, 66.2% acknowledged that collaboration tools reduce 

miscommunication, and 69.7% confirmed better project goal comprehension via dashboards. These findings 

suggest a positive relationship between platform usage and job understanding, supporting the assumption that 

digital tools, when effectively deployed, enhance clarity and role alignment. 

Discussion of Findings 

This section discusses the results from the data analysis in relation to the study’s research questions, comparing 

the findings with existing literature and interpreting them through the lens of Media Richness Theory (Daft & 

Lengel, 1986), which posits that communication media vary in their capacity to convey information effectively, 

particularly in ambiguous or complex situations like remote work. 

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Research Question 1: What communication strategies are employed by organisations to support remote 

work in Akwa Ibom State? 

The findings revealed that most respondents disagreed with the notion that virtual meetings (83.8%) and email 

(82.4%) are frequently used in their organisations to support remote work. However, a significant number agreed 

that structured feedback channels (71.8%) and instant messaging platforms (69.7%) were employed. These 

findings contrast with previous studies such as Agbozo and Sackey (2021) and Ajayi and Afolabi (2022), who 

found that regular virtual meetings and email communications were dominant tools used by organisations during 

remote work transitions. The discrepancy in the present study may indicate either poor digital communication 

infrastructure or weak policy implementation in organisations within Akwa Ibom State. From the standpoint of 

Media Richness Theory, virtual meetings and emails are considered moderately rich communication media. Their 

limited use in this context implies that workers may not be receiving information with the richness required to 

resolve ambiguities inherent in remote working conditions. This gap may contribute to inefficiencies, 

miscommunication, and reduced engagement among staff. 

 

Research Question 2: To what extent are AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms used by remote 

workers in Akwa Ibom State? 

The data show that a substantial majority of respondents indicated that AI-enhanced platforms are not widely 

used: 69.7% disagreed that tools like Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams are utilised, and 58.5% reported 

that AI features are not integrated. However, 62.7% indicated that training had been offered, and 74.7% 

acknowledged that where platforms were used, they improved communication and document sharing to some 

degree. This limited usage contradicts findings from Chukwu and Omeje (2023) and Ogunleye and Bakare (2023), 

who reported a growing integration of cloud-based AI tools in Nigerian academic and corporate environments. 

The variance suggests a possible digital divide or resistance to adoption at the institutional level within Akwa 

Ibom State. Media Richness Theory supports the idea that cloud-based platforms with AI features can enrich 

communication by enabling immediate feedback, customised task scheduling, and collaborative interfaces. Their 

underutilisation here implies that the organisations are not leveraging available rich media that could reduce 

uncertainty and improve remote work efficiency. 

Research Question 3: How do communication strategies affect job understanding among remote workers? 

The analysis showed that most respondents (80.9%) believed virtual briefings did not contribute to job clarity. 

Yet, 78.2% agreed that feedback from supervisors was helpful, and a notable number recognised that 

communication gaps led to role confusion (63.4%). Furthermore, 85.9% affirmed that clear communication 

increased productivity and task focus. These findings partially support the research of Onwe and Asuquo (2022), 

who argued that consistent, structured communication enhances job clarity. However, the lack of effectiveness of 

virtual briefings in this study suggests that the format, frequency, or content of these meetings may be inadequate. 

From the lens of Media Richness Theory, feedback from supervisors qualifies as a richer form of communication 

due to its interactivity and immediacy. Its positive impact on job understanding reaffirms the theory’s claim that 

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ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

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richer media are more effective in delivering nuanced or complex information. Meanwhile, the ineffectiveness of 

briefings in this study highlights that the richness of the medium must be matched by the appropriateness of 

content and context. 

Research Question 4: What is the relationship between the use of AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration 

platforms and job understanding among remote workers in Akwa Ibom State? 

The results paint a mixed picture. While the actual use of AI-enhanced platforms was limited, respondents who 

had access to them acknowledged benefits: 71.8% noted that these tools helped track responsibilities, 64.8% said 

they clarified task deadlines, and 69.7% agreed that dashboards helped understand project goals. These findings 

support the claims of Eze and Okonkwo (2021) and Nwachukwu and Ifeanyi (2022), who found that AI-powered 

collaboration tools improve workflow visibility and understanding of job expectations in virtual teams. The 

implication is that, where these tools are used, they positively impact job comprehension. According to Media 

Richness Theory, AI-enabled dashboards and collaborative features provide dynamic, layered communication, 

reducing ambiguity and enhancing decision-making. Therefore, their positive correlation with job understanding 

in this study underscores the theoretical expectation that digital tools can serve as rich media when implemented 

effectively. 

Summary of Findings 

i. Low use of virtual communication strategies. Most respondents reported limited use of virtual meetings 

(83.8%) and email (82.4%) for remote work. 

ii. Minimal adoption of ai-enhanced collaboration tools, with a majority (69.7%) noting their organisations do 

not use cloud-based platforms, and 58.5% said AI features were lacking.  

iii. While virtual briefings were not seen as helpful (80.9%), supervisor feedback was mostly effective (78.2%). 

iv. Among users, AI tools helped track responsibilities (71.8%), clarify deadlines (64.8%), and enhance 

understanding of project goals (69.7%). However, overall usage remains limited. 

Conclusion 

Effective communication and the adoption of innovative technologies have become essential for organisational 

success especially in today’s rapidly evolving work environment, driven by digital transformation and the rise of 

remote work. This study highlighted a significant gap in the adoption of modern communication tools and 

technologies, with many organisations still relying on conventional methods that may not fully support the 

dynamics of remote work. Despite moderate use of structured communication channels and feedback systems, 

virtual meetings and AI-powered collaboration tools were found to be underutilised. This underutilisation limits 

the potential benefits of digital platforms in enhancing role clarity, task management, and productivity. However, 

the findings also revealed that when effectively employed, communication strategies and digital platforms 

significantly contribute to better job understanding and reduced ambiguity in task execution. As organisations 

navigate the challenges of remote work, particularly in regions like Akwa Ibom State, investing in communication 

infrastructure and employee training will be vital to maximising efficiency and engagement. 

Recommendation 

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ISSN: 2994-0540 

Impact Factor: 7.94 

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This study recommends that: 

i. Organisations should adopt structured communication strategies, including regular virtual meetings and 

official use of emails, to enhance clarity and information flow among remote workers. 

ii. Employers should invest in and integrate AI-enhanced cloud-based collaboration platforms such as Google 

Workspace and Microsoft Teams to support real-time communication, task tracking, and document sharing. 

iii. Comprehensive and continuous training should be provided to employees to improve their digital 

competencies and ensure effective use of AI-driven collaboration tools. 

iv. Supervisors and team leaders should adopt a feedback-driven communication culture to reinforce job 

understanding, clarify expectations, and reduce confusion. 

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