Formal and Informal Channels of communication - BBA - 1

Formal and Informal Channels of communication

1. Recorded v/s live communication:

       Recorded communication is prepared in advance, such as audio tapes and CDs, videotapes, letters, reports, printed materials, faxes, e-mails and radio or TV broadcasts.

      The advantage of this communication is, a receiver can access the communication anytime he wants, and every time he can get the same informative message.

2. Passive v/s interactive communication:

      Passive communication is a one way process. Receiver is not able to respond directly. For example audio tapes and CDs, videotapes, printed materials, radio and TV broadcasts. The advantage of this communication is that it requires less effort, because there are no opportunities for interaction.  

     Interactive communication is two-way communication. Both the sides are able to send and receive the message. For example one-to-one, meetings, phone calls and videoconferencing calls. The advantage of this communication is that it provides opportunities for feedback.

3. Local v/s remote communication:

      Local communication is offline communication. It can be done by the help of CDs, videotapes, CDROMs, letters, memos, reports, one-to-ones and meetings. The advantages of local communication are that there is no sacrifice for the quality, because there are some restrictions that where the communication can take place.

     Remote communication is delivered with distance. For example, e-mails, radio, TV broadcasts videoconferencing and phone calls. A advantage of this communication is the medium is internet and it can be easily updated centrally.

4. Push v/s pull communication:

      Push communications are sent to special receiver, for example, letters, memos, faxes, e-mails, one to ones, meetings, and videoconferencing. The advantage of this communication is the perfectness that the message will reach its target within an appropriate time frame.

      Pull communication are made available to be accessed at the receiver’s judgment. For example, audio tapes and CDs, video tapes, printed material, the internet, radio and TV broadcasts. The advantages of this communication are that it is less stressful for the receiver, and large quantity of information can be made easily available. 

Reference book: - Business Communication. Sathya Swaroop Debasish & Bhagaban Das. PHI Learning Private Limited. New Delhi.