Which flow of information occurs when it moves across departments or teams among peers?

Lateral communication refers to the flow of information that occurs between individuals or teams at the same hierarchical level within an organization. This type of communication is essential for fostering collaboration, sharing ideas, and resolving issues among peers. It facilitates improved teamwork and helps ensure that all departments or teams are aligned in their efforts and objectives.

In contrast, vertical communication refers to the flow of information between different levels of hierarchy, either upward to supervisors or downward from management. Diagonal communication involves interactions that cross both hierarchy and departmental lines, which is less common and sometimes more complex. Upward communication specifically focuses on information flowing from lower levels of an organization to higher levels.

Understanding lateral communication is crucial because it enables organizations to operate more cohesively. It encourages sharing knowledge and resources, leading to enhanced productivity and a stronger organizational culture.