Abstract:
This is an empirical study of the' pattern of informal communications
operating between the managerial hierarchy of a government managed large
size industrial organization. of Sri Lanka. The study is intended to bring
some light on the importance of the' "grapevine" in a formal
organization. Special emphasis is placed on the accuracy of information,
the degree of dissemination a.nd of information, the communication centers
involved in the cultural network of the communication channel. As informal
communication network exists in almost all organizations, management can
use this as a communication toolto reach. the informal group members not
included in the path of formal communication channel. - The role played
by certain communication agents such as "Silindu" cannot be ignored in
. these cultures. Accuracy, reliability, speed and dependability are inherent
ingredients of these informal messages.
