Page 3 - Lesson Note 8

B can have communication with A and C. The same applies to all the members of

the group. In this case, the communication moves at a slow speed.
(iv) Free Flow Communication: This form of communication also takes place

among the different members of the group. Its special feature is that every
member of the group can talk to all the other people in the group. This is clarified

in diagram (4). A can talk directly to B, C, D, E. In the same way, B can talk directly
to A, C, D, E. The same applies to all the members of the group. In this case, the
communication moves at a rapid pace.

(v) Inverted ‘V’ Communication: In this form of communication, a subordinate is

permitted to communicate with the boss of his boss. In this form of
communication, the messages move at a rapid speed. In the diagram (5), C and D
is the subordinate of B who in turn is a subordinate of A. Here, C and D can talk

directly to A who happens to be the boss of B.

Informal Communication:

Communication that takes place without following the formal lines of
communication is said to be informal communication. Informal system of

communication is generally referred to as the ‘grapevine’ because it spreads
throughout the organization with its branches going out in all directions in utter
disregard to the levels of authority.

The informal communication arises out of needs of employees to exchange their
views, which cannot be done through formal channels. Workers chit chatting in a

canteen about the behaviour of the superior, discussing about rumors that some
employees are likely to be transferred are some examples of informal

communications. The grapevine/ informal communication spread rapidly and
sometimes get distorted.

It is very difficult to detect the source of such communication. It also leads to

generate rumours which are not authentic. People’s behaviour is affected by
rumours and informal discussions and sometimes may hamper work

environment. Sometimes, grapevine channels may be helpful as they carry
information rapidly and, therefore, may be useful to the manager at times.