Which of the following is a good example of horizontal flow in an organisation?
Options:
- A) When employees give their supervisors reports listing their accomplishments during the last year
- B) When the department heads of marketing and research get together for a meeting
- C) When, at a party, the Vice-President’s secretary tells the husband of one of the employees about plants of layoffs
- D) When of supervisor issues a statement to all subordinate explaining new travel policies
The Correct Answer Is:
- B) When the department heads of marketing and research get together for a meeting
Answer Explanation:
Horizontal flow within an organization refers to communication, collaboration, or interaction that occurs between individuals or departments at the same hierarchical level. It is a vital aspect of effective organizational functioning as it facilitates the exchange of information, ideas, and expertise across different parts of the company, promoting innovation, problem-solving, and synergy.
Let’s analyze each of the options provided and explain why option B is the best example of horizontal flow, while the others are not as suitable.
Option A) When employees give their supervisors reports listing their accomplishments during the last year:
This option represents a vertical flow of information within the organization. In this scenario, employees are reporting their accomplishments to their supervisors, which is a typical top-down communication structure.
The information is flowing from a lower hierarchical level (employees) to a higher one (supervisors), reflecting a vertical, hierarchical structure rather than a horizontal one.
Option C) When, at a party, the Vice-President’s secretary tells the husband of one of the employees about plans of layoffs:
This example doesn’t fit the definition of horizontal flow within an organization. It is an informal, external communication occurring outside of the workplace at a social event. Furthermore, discussing layoff plans with someone outside the organization raises ethical and confidentiality concerns.
Horizontal flow typically refers to interactions and communication within the organization’s structure, not external parties at social gatherings.
Option D) When a supervisor issues a statement to all subordinates explaining new travel policies:
Option D is an example of vertical flow. The supervisor is issuing a statement to all subordinates, which is a top-down communication approach. The flow of information originates from a higher hierarchical level (the supervisor) and is disseminated to lower levels (subordinates).
It represents a traditional command-and-control communication structure rather than the lateral or horizontal interaction emphasized in the concept of horizontal flow.
Option B) When the department heads of marketing and research get together for a meeting:
Option B is the most suitable example of horizontal flow within an organization. It depicts department heads from different areas (marketing and research) coming together for a meeting. This interaction involves individuals at the same hierarchical level within the organization.
They are sharing information, discussing ideas, and collaborating to address common goals or challenges. Such cross-functional meetings foster horizontal communication and collaboration, promoting the exchange of expertise and ideas between peers rather than following a top-down or vertical communication structure.
Horizontal flow is essential for fostering a culture of teamwork, innovation, and knowledge sharing within an organization. While vertical communication is necessary for hierarchy and decision-making, horizontal communication is equally important for facilitating cooperation, problem-solving, and adaptability.
In conclusion, option B is the best example of horizontal flow as it embodies the essence of lateral, peer-to-peer communication and collaboration within an organization, while the other options represent vertical or external communication scenarios that do not align with the concept of horizontal flow.
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