Direction or Flow of Communication

Downward communication Upward communication Horizontal communication Diagonal communication

Downward Communication

Downward communication

Merits1)Mission and Goals2)Plans and Policies3)Duty and authority4)Job satisfactionLimitations1.Distortion2.Incomplete Information3.Time Consuming4.Filteration of Information.

Upward Communication

Upward Communication

Media of upward Communication

1.Suggestion System. 2.Grievance Procedure . 3.Open-door Policy. 4.Questionnaries 5.Ombudsperson

Merits of Upward Communication

Feedback Creative Ideas Better Relations Increased Motivation Overcome Resistance to Change

Limitations of upward communication Fear and Apprehensions Filteration Time Consuming Inattention by Superiors Low Morale.

Horizontal or Lateral Communication

It refers to the transmission of information among persons of the same level.

Horizontal or Lateral Communication

Merits of Horizontal communication

It speeds up the flow of work in the organization

It facilitates problem-solving among members at the same level and brings about co-ordination.

It helps in reviewing activities assigned to people working at identical positions.

It develops mutual trust and confidence.

It relieves top managers burden of solving problems of lower levels.

Limitations of Horizontal Communication

1.Managers lack knowledge of other functional areas.

2.Personal likes and dislikes among different work group can obstruct free flow of information.

3. Differences in perception and attitudes of functional heads can be counter – productive in horizontal communication.

Diagonal Communication

Diagonal communication cuts across different functions and level in an organization.

Helo, officer,tell me, is there an emergency?

Hello lieutenant,patroling ecxz speaking sir,I’m rite here at the crime scene

Diagonal communication occurs between officers who are at different levels of authority and who serve under different commands.

This type of communication is common in tactical situations which require the quick transfer of information or advice

Diagonal communication is usually verbal.

It is a most direct and fastest method of communication.

Disadvantages

It can destroy lines of authority and formal chains of command.

It can lead to conflicting orders and hence to further confusion