<Ul> <Li> Mechanistic structure--"A mechanistic or hierarchical organizational structure emphasizes specialization in position . Examples include healthcare and governmental organizations where information is communicated based on a chain of command . This organizational structure type is not conducive to lateral communication and, in fact, discourages it . Since direction and coordination are achieved through upper hierarchical levels, peer information sharing is limited . Overall, a mechanistic structure promotes vertical communication or top - down communication with strict alignment and unity of command within the organization". </Li> </Ul> <Li> Mechanistic structure--"A mechanistic or hierarchical organizational structure emphasizes specialization in position . Examples include healthcare and governmental organizations where information is communicated based on a chain of command . This organizational structure type is not conducive to lateral communication and, in fact, discourages it . Since direction and coordination are achieved through upper hierarchical levels, peer information sharing is limited . Overall, a mechanistic structure promotes vertical communication or top - down communication with strict alignment and unity of command within the organization". </Li> <Ul> <Li> Organic structure--"An organic organizational structure is built upon an entrepreneurial concept . Here, the decisions made are decentralized and coordinated by mutual adjustment rather than command and control . Examples include a small business or a manufacturing facility where communication is promoted at all levels of the organization . This organizational structure allows for greater autonomy, promotes individual initiative, and allows employees to be involved in the decision - making process thus enabling employee decision - making to contribute to or detract from organizational goals . In short, an organic organizational structure can encourage and facilitate lateral communication". </Li> </Ul> <Li> Organic structure--"An organic organizational structure is built upon an entrepreneurial concept . Here, the decisions made are decentralized and coordinated by mutual adjustment rather than command and control . Examples include a small business or a manufacturing facility where communication is promoted at all levels of the organization . This organizational structure allows for greater autonomy, promotes individual initiative, and allows employees to be involved in the decision - making process thus enabling employee decision - making to contribute to or detract from organizational goals . In short, an organic organizational structure can encourage and facilitate lateral communication". </Li>

Often called lateral communication is the flow of information between colleagues and peers