BUSINESS BASICS
Grade 8
November 2021
Factors To Be Considered While Selecting the
Medium/Channel of Communication.
The channel or medium used to communicate a message affects how the audience will receive
the message. Communication channels can refer to the methods we use to communicate as well
as the specific tools we use in the communication process.
The factors to be considered when selecting a medium/channel of communication are:
1. Nature of Message 6. Supporting Technology
2. Cost 7. Urgency
3. Record 8. Secrecy
4. Distance 9. Safety
5. Scale of Organisation 10. Relationship.
Factor # 1. Nature of Message:
The means of communication depends upon the nature of the message. Urgent, confidential,
private and important messages should be distinguished from ordinary, routine, open and less
important messages and the means of communication are to be chosen accordingly.
Factor # 2. Cost:
The cost of sending a message is also to be considered while selecting a mode of
communication. The result obtained should justify the expenditure.
Factor # 3. Record:
If the record of the communication is important it should be written, otherwise oral
communication is sufficient.
Factor # 4. Distance:
Distance is another factor for consideration. The mode of communication to be chosen depends
on whether the message is to be sent to a nearby place or somewhere at a long distance.
Factor # 5. Scale of Organisation:
Means of communication in large-scale business is different from that in the small-scale. In
small business most communication is oral while in large business it is written.
Created by: S. Morgan
Source: [Link]
of-communication-10-factors-to-considered/70164
Factor # 6. Supporting Technology:
Both the sender and the receiver must have supporting technological communication tool to
make communication through a particular medium. For example, to get a fax message one
should possess a fax machine. Therefore, while selecting a means of communication one has to
consider whether supporting technological tool is available at the other end.
Factor # 7. Urgency:
Selection of the means of communication is to be made keeping in view the urgency of the
communication. Time available is the main factor here. Higher cost may be justified for sending
the message in time.
Factor # 8. Secrecy:
If the message to be communicated is secret or confidential, such means are required to be
adopted that can maintain secrecy. A telephone call can be overheard, an e-mail or fax may not
be appropriate, and an office memo may be less confidential. In such cases, face-to-face talking
may solve the problem.
Factor # 9. Safety:
The sender has to be careful about the safety of the message. He/She has to decide whether the
message would be sent by ordinary post or by registered post; through courier or messenger, etc.
Factor # 10. Relationship:
The relationship between the sender and recipient may be a decisive factor in the choice of the
means of communication. Message of private nature may require personal contact whereas
formal relationship demands official and conventional mode of communication.
Created by: S. Morgan
Source: [Link]
of-communication-10-factors-to-considered/70164
