Professional community networks : Has f2f gone the way of Morse code?

Purpose – This article aims to analyse the design of community systems in two real‐world professional communities that employ a mix of communication modes, that is, face‐to‐face communication and computer‐mediated communication. Design/methodology/approach – The paper analyses the present situation in the area of community networks and the more traditional means of communication, like f2f. Findings – The article finds that the online environment is not yet fully ready to replace more traditional means of communication like f2f. Originality/value – This work adds to the body of knowledge on communication modes and makes some suggestions, which could improve its potential in an online world.