Author Question: Though IT has improved organizational communications in recent years, ________ remains a major ... (Read 117 times)

imanialler · **on:** Jul 6, 2018

Though IT has improved organizational communications in recent years, ________ remains a major concern.

A) timeliness
B) security
C) cost
D) breadth potential

Question 2

What is the role of the informal communication network in organizations? How can managers ensure that this network is beneficial to the organization?

What will be an ideal response?

dantucker · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 6, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: B

Answer to Question 2

Answer: The informal organizational communication network in organizations is known as the grapevine. The grapevine is active in almost every organization. It is an important source of information for employees, many of whom hear about important matters first through rumors or gossip on the grapevine. Acting as both a filter and a feedback mechanism, it pinpoints those bewildering issues that employees consider important. More importantly, from a managerial point of view, it is possible to analyze what is happening on the grapevinewhat information is being passed, how information seems to flow, and what individuals seem to be key information conduits. By staying aware of the grapevine's flow and patterns, managers can identify issues that concern employees, and, in turn, use the grapevine to disseminate important information. Because the grapevine can't be eliminated, managers should manage it as an important information network.
Rumors that flow along the grapevine also can never be eliminated entirely. However, managers can minimize the negative consequences of rumors by communicating openly, fully, and honestly with employees, particularly in situations where employees may not like proposed or actual managerial decisions.