Asynchronous is the kind of word that makes people nod like they understand it… then Google it five minutes later.
It sounds like a condition.
Or a secret password.
Or something you hope your kids don’t catch in preschool.
But here’s the translation:
Asynchronous means “not at the same time.”
That’s it.
In multifamily, software vendors, ops consultants, and tech-forward thinkers use the term like it’s the key to a hidden dimension.
It isn’t.
It just describes communication that doesn’t happen in real time.
A resident submits a maintenance request through an app.
A leasing advisor responds two hours later.
Asynchronous.
A team-member watches a training video at 9 PM.
Their manager reviews the quiz at 7 AM.
Asynchronous.
It’s not a revolution.
It’s email with better PR.
And yet, there’s power here.
Because while “asynchronous” is wrapped in academic tinsel, the shift it signals is real: Control is moving back to the user.
Schedules are becoming more fluid.
Attention is no longer hostage to the calendar.
But here’s the trap.
If we let the word run the room, we forget the point.
This is about giving humans more room to be human.
Asynchronous only works when it’s thoughtful.
When it’s designed to serve, not just delay.
When the person on the other end still feels like the priority, not a ping in the queue.
So yes, laugh at the word.
Mock it.
I know I do!!
Shrink it.
Put it in its place.
Then use it to build something better.
“Asynchronous is just a fancy way to say ‘you’re not ignoring me, you’re answering me when it works for you.’” — Mike Brewer