As originally answered on Quora.com …
According to Businesstopia, alinearmodel, communication is considered one way process where sender is the only one who sends message and receiver doesn’t give feedback or response. The message signal is encoded and transmitted through channel in presence of noise.
I’m not sure about the latter portion of that definition but I’ve always known it as one-way communication.
Examples are as follows:
Fax Shotgun: When fax machines were state of the art, many business people would send out a ‘shotgun’ blast of info to all the contacts in their data base. They could be promoting a product or service. Since the info is generic in nature and not necessarily sent to someone that the sender has a relationship with, it can be considered a linear communication.
E-blasts: Today’s version of the Fax Shotgun is the e-blast. Technology allows for sending out large numbers of e-mail messages with the express purpose of promoting a cause. Spam laws have been developed to prevent this nuisance. The software allows you to insert a personal greeting as well as the recipient’s name. Even so, this is still linear communication.
An e-blast can serve in a positive manner if you need to send out info that a group of people require. Rather then send out individual e-mails, you can send out one message to multiple addresses.
It can likely be argued that a politician delivering a ‘state of the nation’ speech is a linear communication. Dialogue is not likely encouraged during the delivery of the content. It is a one way process that becomes two way when the pundits get a hold of it.
It can also probably be argued that this message itself is an example of a linear communication. Anybody reading this message doesn’t likely know each other.
Thanks again for your question.
~~~
For further discussion on public speaking, speech development, communication skills and Toastmasters, visit the Live For Excellence Book Store for the following publications:
Blow Your Own Horn!: Personal Branding for Business Professionals
Power Networking For Shy People: How to Network Like a Pro
The Power of Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Influence
The Power of Promotion: Online Marketing For Toastmasters Club Growth
The Savvy Emcee: How to be a Dynamic Master of Ceremonies
Working With Words: Adding Life to Your Oral Presentations
Related Posts
Rae A. Stonehouse is an author, speaker, and self-publishing consultant dedicated to helping others embrace constant improvement and overcome challenges. With over 40 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in psychiatry and mental health, Rae brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for self-development to his writing and presentations.
As a 25+ year member of Toastmasters International, Rae has systematically built his communication abilities and self-confidence to share his insights as an author and speaker. His self-help books and personal development presentations aim to have conversational one-on-one connections with readers and audiences.
Rae is known for his wry sense of humor and sage advice delivered in a relatable coaching style. After four decades as a nurse, Rae has rewired rather than retired, actively writing and pursuing public speaking. He strives to share lessons learned to help others achieve personal and professional growth.
To learn more about Rae and his approach to constant improvement, visit his website at Live For Excellence Productions or to learn more about his publications visit Live For Excellence Store
