Downward communication

[ankur bhattacharjee]

What is downward communication

[India Hindi Blog Information]

Downward communication is a supervisory communication which flows from superiors to the subordinates. It flows downward through the  hierarchy of command. The managing Director communicating with the Departmental Heads, a manager giving directives to the assistant manager or the supervisor the foreman instructing the worker, are all engaged in the process of downward communication, Downward communication includes all circulars orders, memos, notices, job sheets etc.

For any organisation to be successful, its downward communication's effectiveness is crucial. It is suitable for an organisation in which the chain of command is arranged in distinct ranks one below to other. However in large sized, complex structured business organisations, a number of executives such as the production manager, sales manager, purchase manager etc, enjoy equal rank and then it becomes difficult to depend solely on the downward flow of communication. It has to then be supplemented by other channels of communication. It has to then be supplemented by other channels of communication. 

Medium for downward communication can be both oral and written. Important directives and instructions can be communicated through letters policies and procedures can be announced through circulars, house bulletins manuals etc, annual reports may be found suitable for acquainting the lower staff with the activities and achievements of the year and posters may be used to pass on miscellaneous information. Mostly however, downward communication is through the oral media. A department head or a foreman finds it easier to issue oral instructions to supervisor or workers. The Managing Director would find it more convenient to convene a meeting of the departmental heads and pass on information and directives verbally rather than writing lengthy and detailed letters. Large groups may even be addressed over the public address system. Audio visual media like films and slides can also be used for downward communication.