Three ways in which communication flows through formal organisational channels are called :
Options:
- A) Loose coupling, tight coupling and uncoupling
- B) Positive true, negative flow and peripheral flow
- C) Downward flow, upward flow and horizontal flow
- D) The grapevine, the gatekeeper and the network
The Correct Answer Is:
- C) Downward flow, upward flow and horizontal flow
Answer Explanation:
The correct answer is option C: Downward flow, upward flow, and horizontal flow. Let’s explore why this answer is correct and why the other options are not.
Option C: Downward flow, upward flow, and horizontal flow
Downward Flow: In formal organizational communication, downward flow refers to the communication that originates from higher levels of management and flows down to lower levels within the organization.
This type of communication is used for purposes such as giving instructions, setting goals, providing feedback, and sharing information about the organization’s vision and strategies. It ensures that employees are aware of their roles and responsibilities and understand the company’s objectives.
Upward Flow: Upward flow, on the other hand, involves communication that moves from lower levels of the organization to higher levels of management. This type of communication is vital for employees to voice their concerns, provide feedback, share ideas, and report on their progress or challenges.
It helps in creating a more inclusive and participatory organizational culture where employees’ perspectives are valued and considered in decision-making processes.
Horizontal Flow: Horizontal flow refers to communication that occurs between individuals or departments at the same hierarchical level within the organization. This type of communication is essential for coordination, collaboration, and sharing information among peers.
It enables different parts of the organization to work together effectively and ensures that teams are aligned in their efforts to achieve common goals.
Option A: Loose coupling, tight coupling, and uncoupling
This option is not correct because the terms “loose coupling,” “tight coupling,” and “uncoupling” are not commonly used to describe the flow of communication in formal organizational channels.
These terms are more often associated with concepts related to systems theory and engineering rather than organizational communication. While they may have relevance in certain contexts, they do not represent the established and widely recognized categories of communication flow within organizations.
Option B: Positive true, negative flow, and peripheral flow
Option B is not correct because the terms “positive true,” “negative flow,” and “peripheral flow” do not accurately describe the typical modes of communication within formal organizational channels. These terms lack clarity and specificity in the context of organizational communication.
Moreover, “positive” and “negative” are often used to describe feedback or attitudes, not the flow of communication itself. “Peripheral flow” does not have a recognized meaning in the context of organizational communication.
Option D: The grapevine, the gatekeeper, and the network
Option D is not correct because it refers to specific communication phenomena within organizations but does not encompass the broad categories of communication flow. Let’s briefly explain each term:
The Grapevine: The grapevine refers to informal communication channels within an organization. It involves rumors, gossip, and unofficial information exchange among employees. While the grapevine is a prevalent form of communication, it does not represent a formal organizational channel.
The Gatekeeper: A gatekeeper is an individual or entity that controls or filters the flow of information within an organization. While gatekeepers play a role in communication, they are not categories of communication flow themselves.
The Network: In an organizational context, a network refers to the connections and relationships among individuals or departments. While networks are important for communication, they do not represent distinct categories of communication flow.
In summary, the correct answer is option C (downward flow, upward flow, and horizontal flow) because it accurately describes the primary directions of communication within formal organizational channels.
The other options either use unfamiliar or inappropriate terminology or refer to specific communication phenomena rather than overarching categories of communication flow.
MBA,BBA.
I am Smirti Bam, an enthusiastic edu blogger with a passion for sharing insights into the dynamic world of business and management through this website.
I hold a MBA degree from Presidential Business School, Kathmandu, and a BBA degree with a specialization in Finance from Apex College,