Arun, the sales manager of ADL Ltd. sent an email to Varun, the marketing manager to share the proposed marketing strategies so that he can plan sale of products accordingly. In response, Varun emailed a detailed marketing schedule for the same.
Identify the type of communication taken place between Arun and Varun.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Lateral communication
Option (1) Vertical - downward communication — Incorrect. This flows from a superior to a subordinate. Arun and Varun are both managers at the same level.
Option (2) Vertical - upward communication — Incorrect. This flows from a subordinate to a superior. Varun is not Arun’s subordinate.
Option (3) Lateral communication — Correct. Lateral (horizontal) communication takes place between one division and another. The sales manager and the marketing manager are from different divisions.
Option (4) Informal communication — Incorrect. Informal communication does not follow the official channels. Here the emails went through the official channel.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Formal Communication … Horizontal or lateral communication takes place between one division and another. For example, a production manager may contact marketing manager to discuss about schedule of product delivery, product design, quality, etc.” |