Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

What is the primary characteristic of horizontal communication?

1. Communication across different hierarchical levels

2. Communication among employees within the same level

3. Communication with stakeholders

4. Communication with external parties

The correct answer is: Communication among employees within the same level

The primary characteristic of horizontal communication is that it occurs among employees at the same hierarchical level. This type of communication is essential for fostering collaboration and teamwork, as it allows individuals to share information, coordinate efforts, and solve problems collectively. Horizontal communication can enhance relationships between colleagues, contribute to a more cohesive work environment, and support a culture of openness, where employees feel comfortable exchanging ideas and feedback. This type of communication is distinct from vertical communication, which involves interactions between different levels of hierarchy—such as between supervisors and subordinates. While communicating with stakeholders and external parties is important for an organization's overall communication strategy, it does not fall under the definition of horizontal communication, which is confined to interactions among peers within the same organizational tier.