Spelling and grammar mistakes in Web site copy, advertising, informational articles, etc. just jump out at me.

Sometimes the typos are easy to overlook (see the word "initally" in Post a poll: section elsewhere on this otherwise marvelous site; that doesn't bother me as the intended meaning is clear).

However, when the typos appear within pricing columns or specifications, they may not be immediately noticeable. Plus, I could be over- or under-charged and my customer could be unhappy that the goods didn't perform as promised. Either way, it's a waste of my time to deal with and an injury to the good will and trust I worked so hard to build.

Most concerning is this, based on my 31 years' experience in business: small businesses that are careless with details in their written communications are frequently just as careless with details in other aspects of their operations -- order taking, picking, packing, shipping and invoicing.

I'm not suggesting that there's a cause and effect relationship between correct spelling and grammar and high accuracy in order entry, fulfillment and billing, but there is definitely a real correlation.

Have we become sloppy businesspersons or has society simply deemphasized the value of correct spelling and clear communications?

How do you feel about this "dumbing down"?

Do correct spelling and grammar truly matter any more?

Please comment.

Jim