Theory
Communication is defined as exchange of ideas, emotions, messages, stories and information through different means including writing, speech, signals, objects or actions.(Clegg et all, 2008).
Levels of communication
Littlejohn (1989) differentiates between four levels of communication:
Dyadic Communication: Dyadic communication means two party communications. Dyadic communication can be interpersonal or face to face and can be informal and formal form of communication. Interpersonal communication is based on interdependence, where each person’s behavior is a consequence of the other’s. Dyadic communication can be impersonal also, in which two parties can manage communication by a letter, email or call.
Small-group communication: This type involves group level communication which is not only face to face, but roles are established and sub groups formed. A group is established beyond the dynamics of its individual members. The culture and the problem solving within a group basically depends upon the interaction among its members.
Shared Meanings: In this type, communication takes place on basis of shared understanding and implicit rules. Through shared meanings organization members reduce the time of their tasks by virtue of predictable communication patterns. That is they seek to reduce ambiguity by developing shared routines with others in organization.
Mass Communication: This type of communication goes from one point to many receivers. It has four characteristics: i) it is communication to a large, anonymous and heterogeneous audiences; ii) it is primarily one way communication; iii) it is transmitted through different channels that work fast; iv) sender is usually big organization rather than individuals.
Functions of Communication Processes
Bordow and Moore (1991) specified four major functions for communication processes.
i) Informative function: Communication transports information about facts and figures that are basis of