Question

Differentiate between Horizontal and Vertical Communication on the following bases:

1. Purpose
2. Direction
3. Relationship
4. Speed

Answer 1

Basis	Horizontal Communication	Vertical Communication
(i) Purpose	To resolve common issues and coordinate departmental efforts.	To report on progress or grievances, give orders, or offer comments.
(ii) Direction	Moves laterally, or sideways, amongst individuals of the same rank.	Flows either downward (top to bottom) or upward (bottom to top).
(iii) Relationship	Occurs amongst coworkers or peers of equal status.	Exists between subordinates and superiors.
(iv) Speed	Because there are fewer layers of hierarchy to traverse, it is typically faster.	Somewhat slower since data would need to go via several tiers.