Lesson 2: Communication

Communication Flow

Previous lessons have explored various lines of communication for various organizational structures.


These were diagramed with organizational charts. This helps a business organize the line of command and distinguish responsibilities.

Effective communication is vital to the success of a business. The goals of communication are to facilitate cooperation with others both inside and outside the organization.

In this lesson, you will explore five directions of communication as well as various channels of communication within a business.

Information can be shared in various directions.


  • Downward
  • Upward
  • Horizontal (Lateral)
  • Diagonal
  • External

Image Source: Pixabay


Refer to the following organizational chart.



In this organization, the line of authority is from the Chief Executive Officer down. However, communication flow could be downward, upward, horizontal, diagonal, or external.

Information must flow in various directions to support the information needs of management. For instance, in the diagram above the Chief Executive Officer may have required some information from Operations. This is a downward flow of information. However, the Head Coach might have supplied that information, which would be an upward flow of communication.