Why Do Brilliant Plans Sometimes Fail?
Even the most brilliant ideas can fail if not communicated effectively. Have you ever wondered why some teams deliver outstanding results while others, despite having capable members, struggle? The answer lies in one critical managerial function—communication process. Without a clear flow of information, even the best strategy can become chaos.
Introduction
In any organization, communication acts as the nervous system—connecting different departments, facilitating decision-making, and ensuring alignment of goals. The communication process is not just about speaking or writing, but about transmitting meaning from one person to another with clarity and understanding.
An effective communication process enables managers to lead, coordinate, motivate, and resolve conflicts. Understanding its steps is essential for organizational success.
What is the Communication Process?
The communication process refers to the structured sequence of steps through which a message is conveyed from a sender to a receiver and feedback is received. It transforms ideas into actions and plans into performance.
Steps in the Communication Process
|
Step |
Description |
|
1. Sender |
The person or entity who initiates the message (e.g., manager, team leader). |
|
2. Encoding |
Converting the idea into a communicable form—spoken, written, or symbolic. |
|
3. Message |
The actual information, idea, or feeling that needs to be conveyed. |
|
4. Channel |
The medium used to send the message (e.g., email, memo, meeting, phone). |
|
5. Receiver |
The individual or group who receives the message and interprets it. |
|
6. Decoding |
The process of understanding or interpreting the message. |
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7. Feedback |
The response of the receiver, confirming whether the message was understood. |
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8. Noise |
Any barrier that distorts the message (e.g., distractions, language gap, delay). |
Real-Life Case Example: Google
Google is renowned for its open communication culture. Every Friday, Google holds “TGIF” meetings where executives share company updates and employees can ask questions—regardless of their rank. This transparent communication process builds trust, encourages innovation, and keeps everyone aligned with organizational goals.
When Google faced backlash for a product design issue, it was internal communication that allowed swift feedback loops between employees and developers, resolving the issue faster.
Importance of Each Step in the Process
- Sender & Encoding: Determines the clarity and intent of the message. Poor encoding = confusion.
- Channel: Choosing the right medium matters. A sensitive message via text may backfire.
- Receiver & Decoding: Understanding depends on knowledge, emotion, and context.
- Feedback: Confirms the message was received and interpreted correctly.
- Noise: Must be minimized for effective transmission—this includes physical, semantic, and psychological noise.
Barriers in the Communication Process (Noise)
|
Type of Barrier |
Example |
|
Physical Noise |
Loud environment, poor connectivity during a Zoom call |
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Semantic Noise |
Use of jargon unfamiliar to the receiver |
|
Psychological Noise |
Prejudices, stress, or emotional states affecting understanding |
|
Organizational Barriers |
Strict hierarchy, unclear authority chain |
Key Takeaways
- Communication is a systematic process of transferring meaning, not just information.
- It consists of 7 essential elements—sender, encoding, message, channel, receiver, decoding, feedback—with noise acting as a barrier.
- Feedback ensures the message was properly understood, completing the loop.
- Organizations like Google thrive on transparent, structured communication.
- Effective communication boosts decision-making, coordination, and team performance.