Horizontal Communication : It's Merits and Demerits

When employees of same level communicates each other than it can be labeled as

horizontal communication. It helps employees to perform the task efficiently.

In the words of R. Pal and Korlahalli, "Communication between department or

people on the same level in the managerial hierarchy of an organization may be, termed as

horizontal or lateral communication."

Thus it can be stated that exchange of information between same level employees of

different departments is horizontal communication.

Horizontal communication can be shown by the following configuration :

Merits/Importance/Advantages of horizontal communication :

Advantages of horizontal communication are as follows:

1. Better understanding : Horizontal communication ensures better understanding, accordingly employees of different division able to perform their job more efficiently.

2. Coordination : Direct communication by breaking the vertical Carmel strengthen the bondage between employees of different departments which helps to boost up co- ordination.

3. Increase productivity : Horizontal communication minimizes the problems of understanding among various departments as a result, productivity increased.

4. Better implementation of decision : Decisions are made by top management but they are executed by the lower level employees. When lower level employees allowed to communicate each other through horizontal communication, it helps to realize the policy and ensures better implementation' of decision.

5. Motivation : Horizontal communication not only increases the level of coordination but also facilitates the task of motivation.

6. Cordiality : Due to the free flow of information Cordiality among the employees increases considerably.

7. Employee morale : Better understanding and cordial environment also boost-up the morale of the employees.

8. Teamwork : In any organization for some specific purposes teamwork is essential. Horizontal. communication is a prerequisite' for successful teamwork..

9. Job Satisfaction : Another major advantage of horizontal communication is, increases job satisfaction of the employees. By ensuring cordial atmosphere and lifting the morale of employees horizontal communication plays a vital role in increasing the job satisfaction.