Formal and Informal Communication

Formal Communication is the communication which flows through pre-defined or official channels.

Ex. Superior ordering to subordinate, Students asking to teacher, making inquiries at an office

Types of formal communication:

Single Chain

In this type of network communication flows from every superior to his subordinate through a single chain.

Wheel

In this network, all subordinates under one superior communicate through him only. They are not allowed to talk among themselves.

Circular

In this type of network, the communication moves in circle. Each person is able to communicate with two adjoining persons only.

Free flow

In this network, each person can communicate with any other person freely. There is no restriction.

Inverted V

In this type of network, a subordinate is allowed to communicate with immediate superior as well as his superior’s superior also.

Informal Communication is the communication which does not flow through pre-defined or official channels.

Ex. Talking with family, Asking for way to strangers, Chatting with friends

Types of informal communication

Single strand

In this network, every person communicates with each other in a sequence.

Gossip network

In this type of network, each person communicates all other persons on a non-selective basis.

Probability network

In this network, the individual communicates randomly with other individuals.

Cluster network

In this network, individual communicates only people he/she trusts.