Advantages and Disadvantages of Written Communication in a Business Environment

The advantages and disadvantages of written communication.

What is written communication? As the name implies, a written communication is a means of communication in which transfer of information from one party to another is done in a written form. There are so many forms of written communications; some of these forms include the following: newsletters, memos, books, articles, circulars, reports, posters, notices, etc.

The written communication is one of the most significant means of communication in any organization in the business world. Let us now take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of written communication.

Advantages of written communication

• One of the biggest advantages of written communication is the fact that it allows for permanent records, which is something other means of communication such as oral communication do not have.
• Written communication strengthens and clarifies a verbal message.
• Because it allows for permanent records, it is good for making references.
• Written communication can be very useful as a defense during legal issues since there is normally a physical evidence in the form of a hardcopy which can be easily stored or kept hidden somewhere.
• Written communication is more reliable than oral communication. A written and signed document carries more weight and validity than spoken words.
• Written communication is more precise than other means of communication.
• Written communication, because of its form can be stored for analysis to be made in order for one to get a better understanding of the message it contains.
• The last but not least advantage of written communication is the fact that it can be easily disseminated to recipients that are in different locations.

Disadvantages of written communication

Below are some of the disadvantages associated with the written communication:

• Unlike other forms of communication, written communication can take a considerable amount of time to produce.
• Written communication is sometimes limited to people who have sight. Blind people or the visually impaired, for instance cannot receive certain types of written communication. For example, a blind man cannot receive information from a poster or notice.
• Written communications are also not flexible. It is a very rigid means of communication.
• With written communication feedback is not immediate. Feedback is a very important thing in every organization, which is why a delay in receiving feedback can result in certain unfavorable issues such as slowing down the decision making process.
• Poor writing skills can hamper the effectiveness of the written communication. If the writer cannot write effectively then there is a high likelihood that a lot of people are going to misunderstand the message being sent. This can be a very negative thing for any organization and can come with a great deal of severe ramifications.
• Another disadvantage of the written communication is that it is time consuming and can be very expensive to produce and to disseminate.
• Some illiterates or people who cannot read and write very well will have it pretty difficult getting and understanding the information or message contained within a written means of communication.

So here we are with the advantages and disadvantages of written communication. Do not forget to read the column on the advantages and disadvantages of oral communication entitled 'Oral Communication: Advantages and Disadvantages of Oral Communication'.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Written Communication in a Business Environment

Source: https://hosbeg.com/written-communication-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-written-communication/

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