Question
Define the following flow of communication: vertical communication and diagonal
communication. [20 marks]
Introduction
The flow of communication in an organisation depends on its size, structure and philosophy
(Gilley, Gilley & McMillan, 2009). Smaller organizations, with fewer levels of hierarchy and
people may be having fewer communication problems. In larger organisation with many
hierarchical levels, the process is more complicated. However, a comprehensive organisational
chart will help in clearly marking out the lines or channels of communication. The flow or
pattern of communication may be downward, upward, diagonal or horizontal.
Vertical Communication
Dolphin (2005) defined the vertical communication as the flow of information, ideas, and
messages between different levels of an organizational hierarchy. It involves the transmission of
information from higher levels of management to lower levels or vice versa. Sunderland (2020)
as cited by Dolphin (2005) deposited that vertical communication can occur in both upward and
downward directions within an organization.
Upward Communication
This type of vertical communication involves the flow of information from lower levels of the
hierarchy to higher levels. It allows employees to communicate their ideas, suggestions,
feedback, and concerns to their supervisors, managers, or top-level executives (Dolphin, 2005).
Upward communication helps in providing valuable insights from the front-line employees and
fosters a participative and inclusive work culture.
Downward Communication
Downward communication is the transmission of information from higher levels of the hierarchy
to lower levels (Pana, 2021). It includes instructions, goals, policies, procedures, feedback, and
performance evaluations. Downward communication ensures that employees understand their
roles, responsibilities, and organizational objectives. It helps in providing guidance, direction,
and coordination within the organization.
Vertical communication is essential for maintaining effective coordination, sharing information,
and ensuring alignment between different levels of the organization (Sunderland, 2020). It
facilitates the transfer of knowledge, decision-making, and feedback, thus contributing to
organizational efficiency and employee engagement.
Diagonal Communication
Jenkins (2021) referred diagonal communication as the flow of information, ideas, and messages
between individuals or departments that are not directly linked through the formal chain of
command. It involves communication across different levels, functions, or departments within an
organization. Diagonal communication can take place in various ways.
Horizontal Diagonal Communication
Kalra (2022) argues that horizontal diagonal communication occurs between individuals or
departments at the same hierarchical level but in different functional areas. For example,
communication between marketing and finance departments or between production and human
resources departments. Horizontal diagonal communication facilitates coordination,
collaboration, and sharing of information between different functional units.
Lateral Diagonal Communication
Lateral diagonal communication occurs between individuals or departments at different
hierarchical levels but within the same functional area (Torres, 2023). For instance,
communication between a junior employee and a senior employee from another department.
Lateral diagonal communication helps in knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and building
relationships across hierarchical boundaries (Torres, ibid).
Diagonal communication is often informal and can facilitate creativity, innovation, and the
exchange of diverse perspectives within an organization. It promotes cross-functional
collaboration, breaks down silos, and enhances overall organizational communication and
effectiveness (Jablin & Putnam, 2001)
Conclusion
References
Dolphin, R. R. (2005). Internal communications: Today’s strategic imperative. Journal of
Marketing Communications, 11(3), 172-180.
Gilley, A., Gilley, J. W., & Mc Millan, H. S. (2009). Organizational Change: Motivation,
Communication, and Leadership Effectiveness. Performance Improvement Quarterly, 21(4), 75-
94.
Jablin, F. M. & Putnam, L. L. (2001). The new handbook of organizational communication:
Advances theory, research and methods. California: Sage Publications.
Kalra, A. (2022). Horizontal diagonal communication: The key to seamless interdepartmental
collaboration? Journal of Business Communicaation, 59(3), 289-306.
Murphy, H. A. (2010). Effective Business Communication. McGraw Hill.
Pana, E. (2021). The role of downward communication in employee engagement: A theoretical
perspective. International Journal of Business Communication, 58(2), 191-212.
Torres, H. (2023). Lateral diagonal communication: A catalyst for interpersonal relationships and
organizational learning. Journal of Business Communication, 60(1), 89-105.
