Async work (asynchronous work) is an operating model where collaboration happens primarily through written communication and structured documentation rather than synchronous meetings. It enables teams to make decisions, share information, and coordinate work without requiring all participants to be available at the same time. The model is particularly valuable for distributed teams across time zones and for deep-work-heavy roles where uninterrupted time matters more than constant availability. It is a structural shift in how work gets done and a discipline that requires intentional culture-building, tooling investment, and behavior change.
The components of async work:
Written-first communication: