Vertical Communication : It's Advantages and Disadvantages

The official communication that takes place between superiors and subordinates are known as vertical communication. This is the most common form of communication of an organization. It can be downward or upward.

Vertical communication can be depicted by the following diagram :

 

Advantages of vertical communication

1. Discipline : In vertical communication official channels are used thus straight

discipline can be maintained.

2. Record : As it follow the formal media it has documentary evidence which can be

used in future.

3. Provide direction : Instructions or directions for proper implementation of official

functions can be transmitted through vertical communication.

4. Feedback : Both downward and upward communication are allowed in vertical

communication which ensures proper feedback.

5. Recognition : Vertical communication is one of the recognized media of internal

communication.

6. Co-ordination : Both way communication under vertical system ensures

coordination among the employees.

7. Dependable : Information transmitted through vertical communication are

authentic and dependable.

Disadvantages :

1. Time consuming: As it follow the official channels it is a time consuming process.

2. Lack of flexibility : Vertical communication is not flexible, thus failed to cope up

with the changed situation.

3. Lack of creativity : In vertical communication employees become mechanized and

want to 'go by books'. As a result they become less creative.