The communication network within an organization plays a very important role in promoting information, sharing organizational goals, fostering teamwork, and ensuring smooth operations across all departments and teams.
Communication networks are surely an indispensable part of every business, and in this article we shall see the various types of Communication Networks and their importance from the management’s point of view.
Here in this blog post we have explained about what is communication network and types of communication network. Let’s first understand what is communication network.
What is Communication Network?
Communication Network Definition: Communication network refers to such an interconnected system that enables the flow and exchange of information among individuals, teams, and departments. The communication network within a business organization consists of a variety of components such as departments, teams, hierarchies, and individuals, each of them with specific roles and responsibilities.
Broadly there are two types of communication network – formal and informal. Depending upon the size and nature of the organization, different communication networks could be implemented based on their effectiveness.
Formal channels include official memos, emails, and hierarchical reporting lines. On the other hand, informal channels include casual conversations, social networks, and grapevine communication.
Types of Communication Network
1. Vertical Communication Network
Vertical Network is a kind of formal network. It is used in exchange of ideas between different levels of employees, like between lower-ranking officials and higher-ranking managers.
This network enables two-way communication wherein immediate feedback is a usual practice. As there is a direct link between employees and their subordinates, the probability of miscommunication is very low.
Examples of Vertical Networks:
● Government Bureaucracies
Government bureaucracies and organizations typically operate using a vertical network structure. Information and directives flow down the upper hierarchical levels, ensuring conformity to established policies and procedures.
● Traditional Corporate Structures
Traditional hierarchical organizations, like multinational corporations, usually adopt a vertical network structure. Communication flows from top-level executives to middle managers, who then pass it downwards to their respective teams and employees.
2. Circuit Communication Network
Among the different kinds of networks of communications, the circuit network is mostly used due to its continuous communication nature. In this type of network, two people at two nodes will communicate with each other continuously. One of the nodes produces messages, while the other node produces feedback in response to the message.
This communication between two people communicating with each other, sending messages and feedback, continues for some time, thus forming a loop or a circuit. This circuit or loop is called the Circuit Network. Generally, the two people that are interacting via this form of network are from the same hierarchical level.
Examples of Circuit Networks:
● Approval Processes
Approval processes within organizations commonly use circuit methods. For instance, during a document approval process, the document passes through predetermined circuits for review and approval, such as through managers or department heads, before reaching the final recipient.
● Sequential Workflows
Particular workflow processes, such as quality control in manufacturing, also follow circuit networks. Each station or step in the process has a specific role that passes the product to the next step until it is completed.
3. Chain Communication Network
For communications that require more than two nodes or more than two levels of employees, Chain Network of communication is employed. Here, the communication network traces a chain of command. The communication starts with a senior or high-level employee or manager, who then hands it over to the next level and then it continues so on.
For instance, the communication starts from the CEO and trickles down to the employees of lower levels. The CEO should pass the information on to the managers who then needs to pass it to the lower levels without alteration.
Careful attention needs to be given so that the message which generates at the higher level trickles down to the lowest level without any alteration.
Since this communication involves a large number of nodes or repetition points, there is a greater chance of error and miscommunication. Additionally, this Chain Network is also very time consuming and often results in messages that are misunderstood by at least some employees in the chain.
Examples of Chain Networks:
● Rumor Mill
Chain Networks resemble informal communication networks, often referred to as the “grapevine” or “rumor mill”. In such a network, information spreads from one person to another, sequentially, without involving any formal channels.
● Message Relay
Chain networks are also used in situations where messages need to be conveyed from one team or department to another within an organization. Each department passes the message to the next department until it reaches the final recipient.
4. Wheel and Spoke Network
Wheel and Spoke Network is a form of vertical network, with the difference that the communication here takes place in many directions with a central person.The single head, generally the manager or leader, radiates information and instructions to different sectors, which are usually subordinate in the hierarchy.
This type of network has proved to be better than the Chain Communication as it establishes direct contact between the central head and all employees. This type of network is best suited for small organizations, as large businesses will require a lot of resources for using this network type.
The advantage of Wheel and Spoke Network is the direct communication between the highest rank and all the subordinates. There are no inclusions of middle parties here that can disrupt the communication process. Therefore, the chances of miscommunication in this network are minimal.
Examples of Wheel and Spoke Network:
● CEO and Department Heads
In large organizations, the CEO acts as the central hub. He/She communicates with department heads, who are the spoke members, and passes on the information, receives updates, and makes decisions based on the inputs from the department heads.
● Project Manager and Team Members
In project management, the project manager similarly serves as the hub, communicating and coordinating with team members. The project manager sets goals, conveys information, and receives updates, while team members have little direct communication with each other.
5. Star Network
The Star Network accommodates multiple participants. It enables two-way network communication, meaning such networks exist between two nodes of the entire lot that are participating. The communicating members can easily exchange ideas, thoughts, and information without any restrictions or hurdles being imposed on them.
Examples of Start Network:
● Department Managers
In an organization, department managers act as central hubs within Star Network. Managers communicate with their team members, allocate tasks, provide guidance, and ensure smooth coordination within the department.
● Executive Leadership
In larger organizations, executive leaders serve as central hubs. They share important company-wide announcements, communicate strategic objectives, and receive feedback from department heads.
Importance of Communication Network
A network plays a major role in communication. A proper network system ensures that the employees of the business organization have a system of passing information among themselves. The communication network system ensures that there are no misunderstandings between workers and that they are on the same page as everyone else.
Here are some of the significant factors of Communication Network.
1. Efficient Information Flow
Communication networks ensure timely and efficient flow of information throughout the organization. By establishing clear channels and protocols, information or messages can be transmitted quickly and accurately. This enables employees to access information that they need to perform their roles effectively.
2. Enhanced Collaboration and Teamwork
Communication networks fosters collaboration and teamwork as they provide channels for individuals and teams to exchange their ideas and work together towards achievement of common goals. It also encourages cooperation and problem-solving amongst employees.
3. Alignment with Organizational Goals
A communication network helps to align individuals and departments within the organization. It ensures that everyone is aware of the company’s objectives, strategies, and changes. This alignment helps promote consistency and a shared understanding of the organizational goals.
4. Reduced Ambiguity and Misunderstanding
Clear communication networks help in minimizing ambiguity and misunderstanding. By defining roles and responsibilities clearly, and providing designated channels for communication, management ensures that information is communicated comprehensively and accurately. This, in turn, reduces the risk of misinterpretation, confusion, and also errors in tasks or projects.
5. Increased Employee Engagement and Satisfaction
An effective communication network contributes to increased employee satisfaction and engagement. When employees feel informed, connected, and included in the communication processes, they are more likely to be productive, motivated, and satisfied with their work.
A well-designed network even encourages active participation, open dialogue, and recognition of employee contributions.
The Final Word
Many businesses have set up several policies and processes for good and effective communication.
Which type of communication networks should be used and which type of networks is suitable for a particular type of business depends on the size of the organization as well as the nature of the projects. Loyalty, sincerity in transmission, and information reception are the basis of a good communication process.
we hope that you have understood about what is communication network and types of communication network. If you still have any queries regarding this guide please let us know in the comment section betlow, will definitely help you.
