Communication is a vital process in every organization. People at work spend a great deal of time communicating with each other in meetings, over the phone, via e-mail, etc. Communicating effectively means being able to send a message across the organization that is easy to understand and accurate. When communication flows accurately and effectively, the organization will run smoothly. However, if there is a breakdown in the flow of communication, or the information is not accurate, the organization is likely to encounter performance problems. The Corporate Communication Survey examines employee opinions about the effectiveness of internal communication, communication flow, and preferences concerning communication media.

These survey results can be used to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your organization’s communication network. The following is a brief description of the communication dimensions measured by the survey.

• Communication Flow: Effectiveness of the communication flow in and around the organization (upward, downward, and horizontal)
• Coordination/Knowledge Sharing: Extent to which important information is shared by employees, departments, etc
• Communication Barriers: Aspects of the work environment that prevent the effective flow of communication
• Accuracy: Shared information is detailed and accurate
• Reliability: Shared information is reliable and consistent
• Timeliness: Shared information is received in a timely manner
• Media Effectiveness: Effectiveness of various media used to communicate important organizational news and day-to-day information
• Interaction Frequency: Extent to which employees receive communications about various topics, and use particular media to communicate on a daily basis