Different Types or Channels of Communication with Diagram

types or Channels of Communication

Every business or business house sends out and receives in oral and written messages both internally and externally. Both these internal and external channels are equally important to the success and smooth working through the business organization.

The internal and external communication is further divided into the following types or channels.

Types of communication are given in the below diagram.

Image credits © Manoj Patil.

Types of communication are followed:

Internal and external communication

Internal communication

Formal communication

1. Upward communication
2. Downward communication
3. Vertical communication
4. Horizontal communication
5. Consensus communication

Informal Communication

1. Grapevine communication

External communication

1. Communication with outside world

Internal Communication

The communication within an organization, among managers, employees and others are called internal communication. The internal communication channel should work properly and effectively for perfect co-ordination among all the departments / sections / units.

Internal communication is divided into two parts:

1. Formal and
2. Informal Communication.

Formal Communication

Formal communication takes place within the line of authority. It indicates the official line of communication in which communication takes place through the prescribed and well defined channels. Thus, a worker cannot directly communicate with the production managers in authorized matters.

Formal communication are divided into five parts. They are

1. Upward communication
2. Downward communication
3. Vertical communication
4. Horizontal communication
5. Consensus communication

Informal Communication

The informal communication occurs when two persons come together and talk about their working condition, family, co-workers, etc. Rumor, gossip, etc. are the examples of the informal communication. It is a non-official form of communication. It arises out of human desire and weakness and not out of any organizational need. The informal communication has no fixed direction. It can operate in any direction.

Informal communication are divided into single part.

1. Grapevine communication

External Communication

Messages which are sent out of the organization are called external communication. These messages are sent to or received from suppliers, customers, banks, insurance companies, government departments, mass media and general public. The style, format, and tone of the outward communication affect the organization's public image and public relations.