Sunday, July 15, 2012

Dumb and Smart Communication: "Explain the Differences Between One-Way and Two-Way Communication and Why Two-Way Communication is Important for the New Communications Network?"



For many decades, mass media has existed primarily as form of one-way communication. Many forms of media, such as television and books, only sent out their message through their selected channel. Then, the receivers or audience passively consumed the content. According to Media/Impact, one-way communication can also be referred to as "dumb communication" (Biagi 19). This is due to the fact that the senders had all the control and limited interactions with the receiver. Also, he receiver is not able to offer any immediate feedback to the sender. For example, when someone goes to the movie theater, they are only able to select from the available film listings. In addition, the receiver is only able to watch the film and not directly contribute to the content.

However, in recent years many forms of mass media has evolved into two-way communication due to advancements in digital technology. Two-way communication or "smart communication" involves the sender and receiver being able to communicate directly and immediately with each other (Biagi 19). The receiver is no longer just passive; they have more power to influence and personalize the sender's content through feedback and interactivity. For example, the receiver has the choice to "like" a company on Facebook, which allows them to receive promotional information and gives them a platform for voice their opinions.

Two-way communication is essential in the new communications network due to the fact it is becoming the preferred form of communication of consumers around the world. Thanks to wireless technology, people expect to deal to receive personalized content immediately and have a direct connection with the sender or company. In order to remain profitable, companies need to embrace the technology that allows two-way communication possible.


Biagi, Shirley. Media/impact: An Introduction to Mass Media. Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2010. Print.

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