Communication Matters

What is the purpose of communication? In business, the desired outcome of communication is to get work done (internal) or to generate revenue (external).

I have a great interest in communication as it pertains to business. A few years ago I conducted a research project on communication in international projects that included nearly 100 engineers and managers from over a dozen companies. The underlying thesis of this study was my belief that communication is the most critical component for effective management of teams.

If you are an experienced manager, or simply have a good imagination, this should not come to you as a surprise. Of course, communication is vital—it is the glue that brings individuals together into a team. Whether it is communicating a value proposition with customers, a strategy to management, or details of a plan to a team, communication is one linchpin that you must get right. No two ways about it.