2.6.1—Formal and informal communication

Formal communication follows recognised channels and records; informal communication spreads through relationships and conversation. Both can carry useful information.

Choose a channel for the purpose: a safety instruction needs clarity and traceability, while an informal conversation may surface concerns quickly. Good communication also needs feedback, so the sender can check what the receiver understood.

A manager can publish a new process formally, then hold a short team discussion to discover a practical problem before implementation. The second channel does not replace the first; it improves the loop.

More messages do not mean better communication. Judge accuracy, reach, speed, feedback and the risk of an unrecorded or misunderstood decision.