BUS272 TB

Chapter 7 Communication 257
EXHIBIT 7-3 Three Common Small-Group Networks and Their Effectiveness
Chain
Wheel
All-Channel
Speed
Accuracy
Emergence of a leader
Member satisfaction
Moderate
High
Moderate
Moderate
Fast
High
High
Low
Fast
Moderate
None
High
Lateral
When communication occurs among members of the same work group, among members
of work groups at the same level, among managers at the same level, or among any horizontally
equivalent employees, we describe it as lateral (or horizontal) communication.
Horizontal communication saves time and eases coordination. Some lateral relationships
are formally sanctioned. Often, they are informally created to short-circuit
the vertical hierarchy and speed up action. So from management’s perspective, lateral
communication can be good or bad. Because strict adherence to the formal vertical
structure for all communications can be inefficient, lateral communication occurring
with the knowledge and support of managers can be beneficial. But it can create
dysfunctional conflicts when the formal vertical channels are breached, when members
go above or around their managers to get things done, or when employers find out that
actions have been taken or decisions made without their knowledge.
Small-Group Networks
Formal communication networks can be complicated, including hundreds of people
and a half-dozen or more hierarchical levels. To simplify, we have condensed these
networks into three common small groups of five people each (see Exhibit 7-3 ): chain,
wheel, and all-channel.
The chain rigidly follows the formal chain of command; this network approximates
the communication channels you might find in a rigid three-level organization. The
wheel relies on the leader to act as the central conduit for all group communication;
it simulates the communication network you would find on a team with a strong
leader. The all-channel network permits group members to actively communicate with
one another; it’s most often characterized in practice by self-managed teams, in which
group members are free to contribute and no one person takes on a leadership role.
As Exhibit 7-3 illustrates, the effectiveness of each network depends on the dependent
variable that concerns you. For instance, the structure of the wheel network facilitates
the emergence of a leader, the all-channel network is best if high member satisfaction
is most important, and the chain network is best if accuracy is most important. Thus,
we conclude that no single network is appropriate for all occasions.
The Grapevine
The most common informal communication network in a group or organization
is the grapevine . 44 Although rumours and gossip transmitted through the grapevine
5 Compare and contrast
formal small-group
networks and the
grapevine.
Simulate on MyManagementLab
Communication
formal communication networks
Task-related communications that
follow the authority chain.
informal communication
networks Communications that flow
along social and relational lines.
grapevine The organization’s most
common informal network.