In what type of communication does information flow through established levels of hierarchy?

Vertical communication refers to the structured flow of information within an organization that moves up and down the hierarchical levels. This type of communication typically occurs between different levels of management and employees, facilitating the exchange of directives, feedback, and inquiries.

In vertical communication, the clarity of roles and responsibilities helps ensure that information is conveyed effectively from higher levels of authority to lower levels or vice versa. This form of communication can be either downward, such as managers communicating goals to their teams, or upward, where employees provide feedback or suggestions to their supervisors. The hierarchical nature of this communication method reinforces organizational structure, enabling efficient decision-making and operational flow.

Understanding vertical communication is essential, as it directly impacts how well employees perceive organizational goals and how those in authority can gauge employee sentiment and engagement. The other options do not represent a hierarchical flow of information: network communication involves multiple pathways among peers, informal communication occurs spontaneously and without formal channels, and horizontal communication takes place among colleagues at the same level within the organization.