Unit 4, Question 1: How does the primary function of upward-flowing communication differ from that of downward-flowing communication?

Every aspect of the modern business world is based on communication for success. Technology, along with changes of the world’s societies, have created new layers and augmented old layers within the formal communication networks of business. Formal communication networks are a flow of information and ideas through the command hierarchy of a business. On the other hand, informal communication networks also exist and ironically have become major sources of business communication. This happened with the advent of social media, increased reliance on technology and the inherent limitations of the formal communication networks. Within these communication networks are the actual flow of the ideas and information. Successful business is based on healthy communication and a large part of that is the flow of info and ideas between the top of the food chain down, then back up. This flow has many directions, with the main flows being upward-flowing and downward-flowing.

Upward-flowing communication flows from employees to executives, providing insight into problems, trends, opportunities, grievances, and performance- thus allowing executives to solve problems and make intelligent decisions (pg.8). The upward flow can exist within formal or informal communication networks. In the current business world, a savvy group of executives should be aware of this dual existence. To better their business performance, executives should monitor informal communication and welcome formal communication. Just as feedback from customers is vital to the success of a business, so is the upward flow of ideas, information and also suggestions from employees. An employee that feels their opinions and ideas matter to the “higher-ups” is usually a much more productive employee; thus increasing business output overall.

In contrast, the downward-flow of communication is from executives to employees. This is the executive’s dissemination of ideas and information to the employees to help them better perform. Whether formal or informal in nature, this flow of ideas and info is the most critical to a business’s performance. The nature of the flow when dealing with formal or informal is usually based on the size and type of business. A small hardware store, for instance, is most likely to be using more informal than formal communication. Whereas, a fire department will almost always use formal communication when a chief is sending out information down the ranks. In both cases, the messages that flow from the executives, chiefs, store owners, to the employees, cashiers, firefighters are absolutely vital whether it’s an annual sales goal or the rescue of a family in the middle of the night in a fully involved house fire. The information to perform these tasks at the lower level must be received from the upper levels of the business or organization as clearly and seamlessly as possible.

In conclusion, the flow of information within a business can vary greatly. It is up to the owners and executives teams to constantly monitor communication networks and be willing to change and create new networks based on the inner dynamics of the business and the outside effects of society. This philosophy is not just to be followed by large companies but should be adapted by small ones as well. Including input from employees is key. The flow of information should be constant and consistent, whether communicating upward or downward within the business world.