Horizontal Communication - Definition & Meaning

Published in Human Resources Terms by MBA Skool Team

What is Horizontal Communication?

It is the formal/ informal exchange of ideas between different individuals/departments at the same level of hierarchy in the organization.

Advantages: Enabling horizontal communication in an organization, encourages free information exchange.  Higher information flow between departments is necessary so avoid the same problems being faced by different departments. Hence, information exchange leads to lesser redundancy. Also, horizontal communication makes an atmosphere where employees are comfortable to talk to people in different departments and gain from their learning.

Disadvantage: Sometimes, horizontal communication leads to disputes between individuals/departments. In such cases higher officials have to step in to resolve the matter.


This article has been researched & authored by the Business Concepts Team. It has been reviewed & published by the MBA Skool Team. The content on MBA Skool has been created for educational & academic purpose only.

Browse the definition and meaning of more similar terms. The Management Dictionary covers over 1800 business concepts from 5 categories.

Continue Reading:



Share this Page on:
Facebook ShareTweetShare on Linkedin