Anticlue

Dimensions of Communications

As a part of communicating, the sender is accountable for assuring the information is clear, complete, and comprehendible to the intended recipient. The recipient is responsible for understanding the information and making sure it was received in its entirety. Due to this structure, communication has many dimensions.

• Written and oral, which includes listening and speaking - Written communications include such activities as writing reports and executive summaries, and writing e-mails. Oral communications include giving oral presentations, communicating within a group context, and communicating one-to-one. Listening and speaking skills also are important in ensuring that project information has been distributed properly.
• Internal and external - Internal communications are information exchanges that take place within the organization itself. External communications involve stakeholders and customers who are not officers or employees of the organization – vendors, customers and the media are a typical example.
• Formal and informal - Formal communication involves formal deliverables, such as briefings and status reports describing any key accomplishments and concerns. Informal communications may include phone conversations, e-mail, and adhoc conversations.
• Vertical and horizontal - Vertical communications are directed at persons who are at different levels within the corporate hierarchy. Horizontal communications take place with persons who have similar levels of responsibility and authority your peers.

Project Managers are always involved in communications, and a key to success is understanding the various ways to interact with peers, team mates, stakeholders, and others within and outside of an organization.