Which type of communication moves laterally across different departments?

The correct answer is indeed horizontal communication, which refers to the exchange of messages and information between individuals or groups at the same level within an organization, particularly across different departments. This type of communication is crucial for fostering collaboration, coordination, and building relationships among employees who work within different areas of the organization.

Horizontal communication helps ensure that teams are aligned and working toward common goals, as it facilitates the sharing of ideas and resources. Additionally, it can lead to more innovation and problem-solving by leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise across departments.

In contrast, upward communication involves messages flowing from lower levels of an organization to higher levels, while downward communication moves information from upper management down to employees. Diagonal communication cuts across both levels and departments but remains positional rather than focusing on lateral movement. Understanding these distinctions is vital as they each play a unique role in the overall communication process within an organization.