Communication Process / Process of Communication

 

Communication Process / Process of Communication

In this model there are 8 elements. Each element is engaged in sending (encoding) and receiving (decoding) message simultaneously & each person is constantly sharing the encoding and decoding processes & each person is affecting the other. Thus there is continuous process of feedback in the communication process.

Elements of communication process:

Sender: Sender of the message is the person who contacts other person with the objective of passing the message. He may be the superior, a subordinate, a peer or any person.

A message flowing from superior to a subordinate is downward communication. A message flowing from a subordinate to superior is upward communication. A message flowing from a person to another person working at the same hierarchical level is known as horizontal communication.

Message: It is the subject matter of communication which is intended to be passed to the receiver from the sender. It may be in the form of ideas, opinions, feelings, views, orders, suggestions etc.

Encoding: The process of converting the message into meaningful symbols is called encoding. Since the ideas, opinions, feelings, views, orders, suggestions etc. are the subject matter of communication are abstract and intangible, their transmission require the use of certain symbols such as words, pictures, gestures & other body language.

Channel: Message converted into symbol are transmitted by the sender through a channel like written words in the form of letter an electronic mail, spoken words through personal contact or telephone etc. Gestures are used with spoken words.

Receiver: Receiver is the person to whom message is sent. He may be a superior, a subordinate, a peer or any other person in the organization.

Decoding: In this, the receiver converts the communication symbols transmitted by the sender into message. It should be meaningful so that the receiver understands the message in the sense which is intended by the sender.

Message: It should be meaningful and receiver should understand the message in the sense which is intended by the sender.

Feedback: It is required to ensure the receiver has received the message & understood it in the same sense as the receiver intended. It helps in understanding whether the system is working properly. If it is not working properly, corrective actions are taken.