What is a Communication Network?
There are several means of communication that make communication effective in nature. The collection of means and methods utilized by the user to communicate his ideas is called a communication network. The communication network is the ergonomic list of methods and patterns deployed by the employees of an organization for passing information to other nodes.
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By the general meaning of a communication network, it is understandable that managers use them to create and track different flows of communication according to the ventures. Different needs require various networks of communication which are discussed below.
Types of Communication Network
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Amongst the various networks of communication, the most common ones are as follows.
Vertical Network
The vertical network is one of the formal types of communication networks in organizations. It is used in the exchange of ideas between different levels of employees, like between the lower-ranking officials and the higher-ranking officials.
Such a network allows two-way communication. The general practice in a vertical network is that most of the time, it calls for immediate feedback. Since it is a means of communication between various ranks in a company, the probability of miscommunication is low.
Circuit Network
Amongst the different networks of communications, the circuit network is mostly used for continuous communication between employees. The message is produced at one node, while the other node produces the feedback in response to the message. This process continues for some time, thus creating a loop or a circuit. This loop or circuit is called a circuit network. Generally, a circuit network is established between employees at the same hierarchical level. Therefore, it is different from the vertical network since it takes place in both directions.
Chain Network Communication
The chain network is mostly employed in communication between two or more nodes in an organization. It is mostly observed between the leader and its subordinates. In this network, a chain of command is generated. It generally starts from a higher rank like the CEO, and it trickles down the hierarchy. The message is transmitted in the form of a chain, and therefore the network is called a chain network.
One important thing to be kept in mind is that, since it involves several nodes, there are chances of miscommunication and errors getting incorporated in the network. It is a time-consuming process, and some nodes might not understand the message that is being transmitted.
Wheel and Spoke Network
The wheel and spoke network is another form of a communication network in an organization. It is a form of vertical network, but the communication takes place in many directions with a central person, generally the manager or the leader. The single head radiates information and instructions to different sectors, which are generally subordinate in the hierarchy.
Such a network has proved to be better than the chain communication since it establishes direct contact between the central head and all the employees. However, due to its nature, it can form an aspect of micro-management, which might make the process very taxing. Moreover, owing to its micromanaging nature, it is suited for small organizations. Large businesses will require a lot of resources to use this network.
However, the advantage of a wheel and spoke network is direct communication between the highest rank to all the subordinates. There are no inclusions of middle parties that can disrupt the communication process. Therefore, the chances of miscommunication are minimal in this network.
Star Network
Amongst the various networks of communication, the star network can accommodate multiple participants. It can enable two-way network communication, which means such networks will exist between two nodes of the entire lot that are enrolled in the participation. It fits into the communication network meaning, since it can be regarded as a wheel and spoke network without a central focal point. The communicating members can easily exchange thoughts, ideas, and information without any restrictions being imposed on them.
The nature of the project and the size of the organization determine the types of communication networks required in the business. Loyalty, information reception, and sincerity in transmission are the basis of a good communication process. Many businesses have set several policies and processes for good communication.
Importance of Network in Communication
A network has a major role to play in communication. A network that is proper ensures that the employees of an organization have a system of passing information on among themselves. The network ensures that there are no misunderstandings between people and that they are on the same page as others. Network in any communication assists the organization in reaching its goals. Once the goals are achieved, any organization will value the importance of a strong network. Managers use these to create a system of information that’s needed by them to handle. Any proper network will depend upon the firm’s employees and the integrity that they have.
How to make Notes on Network in Communication using Vedantu?
Read up Network in Communication - Definition and Types that’s on Vedantu and then prepare notes accordingly. This page has all the relevant information that’s needed by the students. They need to go through this page so that they understand the relevance of the network in matters of communication. They can go through this thoroughly and then write down everything that they have picked up in their own language. They must not copy everything that’s on the page. They must stick to concise and to the point sentences so that it gets easier for them to go over these notes later on. They can also highlight all the key areas using some colour. Once they are through with these, they can revise from this page and then sit for tests.
FAQs on Networks in Communication: Types and Importance
1. What is a communication network in the context of a business organization?
A communication network refers to the established patterns and methods through which information is passed among different individuals or groups (nodes) within an organization. It defines the flow of communication, whether it's from senior management to subordinates, between colleagues at the same level, or across different departments, ensuring that messages are transmitted and received efficiently.
2. What are the five common types of communication networks used in organizations?
The five common types of communication networks are:
- Vertical Network: A formal, two-way communication channel between different hierarchical levels, such as between a manager and an employee.
- Chain Network: Follows a formal chain of command, where information flows from a higher authority down through a series of subordinates.
- Circuit Network: A continuous loop of communication between two people, typically at the same level, where one sends a message and the other provides feedback.
- Wheel and Spoke Network: Features a central figure (the hub, like a leader) who communicates directly with several subordinates (the spokes).
- Star Network: An open network where all participants can communicate freely with one another without a central leader, promoting collaboration.
3. What is the primary importance of establishing a clear communication network?
The primary importance of a clear communication network is to ensure efficient and accurate information flow across the organization. It helps in coordinating tasks, minimizing misunderstandings, and aligning all employees towards common business goals. A well-structured network assists managers in tracking communication and making informed decisions, which is crucial for organizational success and integrity.
4. How does a Vertical Network differ from a Circuit Network?
The main difference lies in the hierarchy of the participants. A Vertical Network involves communication between individuals at different levels of the organizational hierarchy (e.g., manager to subordinate). In contrast, a Circuit Network typically occurs between individuals at the same hierarchical level, creating a continuous feedback loop for ongoing tasks or discussions.
5. Explain the functioning of a Wheel and Spoke communication network with an example.
In a Wheel and Spoke network, one central person acts as the hub for all communication. This leader radiates information and instructions directly to several other people (the spokes), who typically do not communicate directly with each other. For example, a project manager (the wheel) might give separate, specific tasks to a designer, a developer, and a writer (the spokes) and receive updates directly from each of them.
6. How can the Chain Network model lead to information distortion or delays in a large organization?
The Chain Network model can lead to distortion because the message is passed through several intermediaries. At each step in the chain of command, there is a risk of misinterpretation, accidental alteration, or omission of key details. It is also a time-consuming process, as the message must pass sequentially from one level to the next, causing significant delays, especially in a large organization with a long hierarchy.
7. Why is a Star Network often considered more flexible than a Wheel and Spoke network?
A Star Network is more flexible because it is decentralized. All members can communicate directly with anyone else in the group, fostering open collaboration, quick brainstorming, and multi-directional information sharing. The Wheel and Spoke network is rigid, as all communication must pass through a single central authority, creating a bottleneck and limiting peer-to-peer interaction.
8. In what business scenario would a formal network like the Vertical Network be more appropriate than a collaborative one like the Star Network?
A formal Vertical Network is more appropriate in scenarios requiring clear, authoritative command and control. For instance, when implementing a new company-wide policy, issuing safety directives, or in a crisis situation, a top-down flow of information ensures consistency and compliance. A collaborative Star Network would be unsuitable here as it could lead to conflicting interpretations and a lack of clear direction.
9. Beyond simple information sharing, how do effective communication networks contribute to organizational goals and employee morale?
Effective communication networks contribute to organizational goals by fostering a culture of transparency and trust. When employees are well-informed and have clear channels to provide feedback (like in two-way networks), they feel more valued and engaged. This boosts morale, encourages proactive problem-solving, and improves teamwork, which are all essential for achieving long-term strategic objectives and maintaining a positive work environment.
