Once you've started to treat email in a way that puts your crucial items first, you'll have a better chance of assigning the more appropriate communication methods. To clarify, here's an idea of what you should use rather than email in many situations:
1. Instant messaging. Should be used when a response is needed immediately. Think of it as the phone for the 21st century.
2. Telephone. Still works better than email to convey the importance of matters at hand. Instant messaging is more efficient at allowing people to track conversations, but the phone is more human.
3. Social networks. Takes things outside of your regular email inbox and often works better for sharing items. As long as privacy isn't the main concern, social network sites like Facebook, Twitter and Google+ can keep your inbox clutter down.