Business Studies – 2.3.2 Communication barriers | e-Consult

Two communication barriers that could be contributing to misunderstandings between departments are:

• Information Overload: Departments may be receiving too much information, making it difficult to identify crucial details and leading to misinterpretations. This can happen if information is not properly filtered or prioritized. For example, a marketing department might send lengthy reports to the production department that contain irrelevant data, overwhelming them and causing them to miss key instructions.
• Lack of Clear Communication Channels: If there isn't a well-defined system for communication between departments, messages can get lost, delayed, or misinterpreted. For instance, relying solely on email without other communication methods like regular meetings or shared project management platforms can lead to information silos and misunderstandings. Different departments might use different software or communication styles, further hindering effective exchange.

A practical solution the company could implement is to establish regular cross-departmental meetings. These meetings would provide a platform for departments to share updates, discuss challenges, and clarify expectations. Furthermore, implementing a shared project management system with clear communication channels would help ensure that information is disseminated effectively and efficiently.