Explain briefly the advantages and limitations of formal communication.

Advantages: The formal communication has the following advantages:

(i) Maintenance of Authority of the Officers: Formal communication maintains constant relations among the superiors and the subordinates. As a result, the dignity of the line superiors is maintained. Consequently, it is convenient to control the subordinates and fix their responsibility.

(ii) Clear and Effective Communication: In formal communication, there is a direct contact among the managers and the subordinates. Both understand the capability, habits, feelings, etc. of one another. Managers know as to when and under which conditions their subordinates need information. In this way, this communication is capable of making available timely information. Hence, it is clear and effective.

(iii) Orderly Flow of Information: The information has to pass through a definite route from one person to another. Hence, the flow of information is systematic.

Limitations: Following are the disadvantages or limitations of the formal communication:

(i) Overload of Work: In a modern business organisation, much information, many messages and other things have to be communicated. Under formal communication, they are routed through a definite channel and this consumes much of the time of the superiors and thus some other important works are left unattended.

(ii) Distortion of Information: This method can be a hindrance in the flow of information. Sometimes the distance between the sender and the receiver is so big that the information has to pass through many hands and by the time it reaches the receiver it is distorted.

(ii) Overlooking by the Officers: The officers do not pay much attention to the suggestions and complaints of the subordinates. They overlook them taking them to be works of daily routine.