Introduction
This assignment explores key concepts in organisational communication, including the
organisational communication process, communication strategy, and communication
integration. Through a series of questions, we examine the importance of effective
communication in organisational settings, the role of communication in shaping
organisational success, and the strategies for integrating communication efforts to achieve
business objectives. By applying theoretical concepts to practical scenarios, this
assignment demonstrates the significance of communication in driving organisational
performance and reputation.
QUESTION 1:ORGANISATIONAL COMMUNICATION PROCESS
1.1 Define the term organisational communication system as explained by Shockley
Zalabak (2012).
According to Shockley-Zalabak (2012:16), organisational communication is "a process
through which organisations are created and in turn create and shape events". This
definition implies that organisational communication plays a pivotal role in facilitating the
functioning of an organisation, influencing its interactions with the external environment,
and ultimately shaping its overall success. Effective organisational communication
enables organisations to adapt to changing circumstances, make informed decisions, and
achieve their strategic objectives.
1.2 Distinguish between communication inputs, communication throughput, and
communication outputs.
Communication inputs
These refer to the external and internal stimuli that provide information to an organisation,
including messages, signals, or data from stakeholders such as customers, employees,
, suppliers, or media. The organisation receives and absorbs these inputs, which can impact
its operations, decision-making processes, and overall performance.
Communication throughput
This refers to the internal processes that transform and interpret communication inputs,
enabling the organisation to make sense of the information and respond accordingly.
Throughput involves the analysis, dissemination, and utilisation of information within the
organisation, facilitating informed decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic
planning.
Communication outputs
These are the tangible and intangible messages, information, or signals that an
organisation sends out to its external environment or internal stakeholders. Outputs can
take various forms, including marketing campaigns, public statements, reports, feedback
to employees, or other forms of organisational expression. Effective communication
outputs enable organisations to convey their message, build relationships, and achieve
their strategic objectives.
1.3
1.3.1 Discuss the role of communication throughput in facilitating the flow of information
across departments at Unisa.
Communication throughput plays a pivotal role in facilitating the seamless flow of
information across departments at Unisa, thereby fostering a culture of collaboration and
coordination. Effective throughput enables the university to process and transform
information efficiently, ensuring that relevant stakeholders receive timely and accurate
information to inform their decisions. This facilitates cross-functional collaboration,
promotes synergy, and enhances the overall efficiency of Unisa’s operations. For instance,
This assignment explores key concepts in organisational communication, including the
organisational communication process, communication strategy, and communication
integration. Through a series of questions, we examine the importance of effective
communication in organisational settings, the role of communication in shaping
organisational success, and the strategies for integrating communication efforts to achieve
business objectives. By applying theoretical concepts to practical scenarios, this
assignment demonstrates the significance of communication in driving organisational
performance and reputation.
QUESTION 1:ORGANISATIONAL COMMUNICATION PROCESS
1.1 Define the term organisational communication system as explained by Shockley
Zalabak (2012).
According to Shockley-Zalabak (2012:16), organisational communication is "a process
through which organisations are created and in turn create and shape events". This
definition implies that organisational communication plays a pivotal role in facilitating the
functioning of an organisation, influencing its interactions with the external environment,
and ultimately shaping its overall success. Effective organisational communication
enables organisations to adapt to changing circumstances, make informed decisions, and
achieve their strategic objectives.
1.2 Distinguish between communication inputs, communication throughput, and
communication outputs.
Communication inputs
These refer to the external and internal stimuli that provide information to an organisation,
including messages, signals, or data from stakeholders such as customers, employees,
, suppliers, or media. The organisation receives and absorbs these inputs, which can impact
its operations, decision-making processes, and overall performance.
Communication throughput
This refers to the internal processes that transform and interpret communication inputs,
enabling the organisation to make sense of the information and respond accordingly.
Throughput involves the analysis, dissemination, and utilisation of information within the
organisation, facilitating informed decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic
planning.
Communication outputs
These are the tangible and intangible messages, information, or signals that an
organisation sends out to its external environment or internal stakeholders. Outputs can
take various forms, including marketing campaigns, public statements, reports, feedback
to employees, or other forms of organisational expression. Effective communication
outputs enable organisations to convey their message, build relationships, and achieve
their strategic objectives.
1.3
1.3.1 Discuss the role of communication throughput in facilitating the flow of information
across departments at Unisa.
Communication throughput plays a pivotal role in facilitating the seamless flow of
information across departments at Unisa, thereby fostering a culture of collaboration and
coordination. Effective throughput enables the university to process and transform
information efficiently, ensuring that relevant stakeholders receive timely and accurate
information to inform their decisions. This facilitates cross-functional collaboration,
promotes synergy, and enhances the overall efficiency of Unisa’s operations. For instance,
