I am always amazed when I see someone composing a very detailed and complex e-mail on a subject that would be much more appropriately discussed. Are people hiding behind e-mail? Are they trying to avoid confrontation?
My rule of thumb is that if it will take you longer to type out your e-mail, than it will to explain the issue, pick up the phone, get up and visit the person — explain the situation, and if a record is needed, summarize it later by e-mail. In the long run, it will take you less time, and bring you better results.
Just my two cents!