Communication networks are the pathways along which information flows in groups, teams, and organizations. There are several types of communication networks in groups including wheel networks where one central member communicates to others, chain networks where members communicate sequentially, and circle networks where communication is based on similarities. All channel networks are characterized by high levels of communication where every member communicates with every other member. Organizational communication networks can be formal, following the corporate hierarchy, or informal like the grapevine where unofficial information spreads quickly.

1. Communication
networks

2. Communication
networks
are the pathways along which information flows in
groups and teams and throughout the organization.

3. Communication
network in groups and
teams
1

4. Information flows to and
from one central member of
the group. The other group
members don’t need to
communicate with each
other to perform highly.
Wheel
Network

5. Members communicate with
each other in a
predetermined sequence,
This are found in groups with
sequential task
interdependence, such as in
line groups
Chain
Network

6. Group members
communicate with others
who are similar to them in
experience or office location
Circle
Network

7. It is characterized by high
levels of communication:
Every team member
communicates with every
other team member.
All
channel
network

8. Communication network in groups
and teams
Wheel
Network
Chain Network Circle Network All channel network

9. Organizational
Communication
Network
formal
informal

10. Organizational
members should
be free to
communicate
with whomever
they need to
contact.
Formal networks
Communication
up and down the
corporate
hierarchy is often
called vertical
communication.
Communication
among
employees at the
same level in the
hierarchy or
sideways is
called horizontal
communicatio

11. Informal Netwoks
One informal organizational
communication network
along which information
flows quickly is the
grapevine.
The grapevine is an
informal network
along which
unofficial
information flows.

12. These are networks that connect
those in the same professions
outside their own companies.

13. Thanks!