Difference between Formal Communication and Informal Communication.

BASIS FOR COMPARISON	FORMAL COMMUNICATION	INFORMAL COMMUNICATION
Meaning	A type of verbal communication in which the interchange of information is done through the pre-defined channels is known as formal communication.	A type of verbal communication in which the interchange of information does not follow any channels i.e., the communication stretches in all directions.
Another Name	Official Communication	Grapevine communication
Reliability	More	Comparatively less
Speed	Slow	Very Fast
Evidence	As the communication is generally written, documentary evidence is present.	No documentary evidence.
Time Consuming	Yes	No
Advantage	Effective due to timely and systematic flow of information.	Efficient because employees can discuss work related problems, this saves time and cost of the organization.
Disadvantage	Distortion due to long chain of communication.	Spread of rumors.
Secrecy	Full secrecy is maintained.	It is difficult to maintain the secrecy.
Flow of Information	Only through predefined channels.	Can move freely.