The term ‘communication’ is derived from the Latin word ‘communes’ which means common. Therefore, communication may be defined as an exchange of facts, ideas, opinions or emotions to create mutual understanding. It refers to various means of transmitting information from one person to another or from one place to another.
Communication is one of the fundamental aspects of all human interaction. The ability to communicate effectively has enabled human beings to build organizations, societies and other social groups that make for survival and better living. “No business can exist without communication.”
Communication is a management skill and it is an indispensable part of any management. Communication plays the same role in a business organization as the nervous system in a human body
Communication is one of the fundamental and basic functions of an office. Communication is a must for all types of business. It promotes office function. Business cannot be performed without communication. It is a process of conveyance of information from one person to another.
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The term communication is used in a wider sense. Communications means not only letters, telegrams, telephone messages, but also transmission of reports, estimates instructions, invoices, order etc. Communication systems can be divided into written, oral and mechanical. The selection of communication system is essential to be considered before discussing the systems.
According to Louis A Allen, “Communication is the sum of all the things one person does when he wants to create understanding in the mind of another. It is a bridge of meaning. It involves a systematic and continuous process of telling, listening and understanding.”
According to Haiman, “Communication means the process of passing information and understanding from one person to another. Communication, fundamental and vital to all managerial functions, is the process of imparting ideas and making oneself understood by others.”