Direction of Communication

Communication can flow vertically or laterally (horizontally).

The vertical dimension can be further divided into downward and upward directions.

• Downward (vertical) - Communication that flows from one level to a lower level is downward communication. A manager providing job instruction, assign goals, or informing employees through letters of new policies are using downward communication.
• Upward (vertical) - Upward communication flows to a higher level in the organisation. Feedback from employees to managers, to inform them of progress, or presentation of new ideas, are examples of upward communication. Upward communication keeps managers aware of how employees feel about their jobs, co-workers, and the organisation in general.
• Lateral (Horizontal) - Lateral communication refers to communication that takes place between members of a group on the same level e.g. workers or managers on the same level. Lateral communication is often necessary to save time and facilitate coordination.