The importance of cross-functional communication

For a long time, internal communication in organizations was confined to a top-down model, with information reaching employees vertically. For over a century, companies had only one means of communication. Over time, internal communication has opened up to new models.

Between the end of the twentieth century and the beginning of the twenty-first, intranets and electronic messaging made their appearance within organizations. Digital solutions emerge as a matter of course, until the virality of social networks in the early 2010s sweeps all before them. The internal communication is undergoing a revolution, and the majority of companies now have online accounts on various platforms, in addition to their websites. Although social networks are designed for external communication, they are also a vehicle for the emergence of cross-functional internal communication. Instant messaging and the proximity of exchanges offered by these platforms are at the root of the changes in communication dynamics we've seen within organizations over the past decade.

Internal and external communications now encourage cross-functional exchanges. The cross-functional communication model is in vogue, and is perfectly suited to the current crisis in the workplace. Cross-functional communication implies egalitarian communication and thus promotes the fulfillment of employees' professional lives. In addition to reducing anxiety at work, it strengthens employees' sense of belonging. This communication model creates a virtuous circle conducive to stimulating employee creativity and productivity.

Cenareo supports companies' communications transition by offering digital signage software to facilitate exchanges between all players. Remote controllable in real time from an intuitive CMS, it has never been easier to manage information and optimize internal communication.

Horizontal, engaging communication

The cross-functional communication model evolves in a collaborative project where hierarchical relationships do not come into play. Subordination can restrict ideas. Freeing up speech will stimulate creativity and productivity. What's more, horizontal communication facilitates exchanges, the sharing of information and the integration of newcomers into the company. As a result, the sense of belonging is multiplied thanks to engaging and transparent communication.

Choosing cross-functional corporate communication means :

• Improve management and communication between teams
• Maintain a healthy and equal relationship with all members
• Avoiding internal conflicts
• Promoting cohesion and team spirit 

For the greater good of productivity and business success! 

Cenareo supports organizations in this egalitarian and transparent approach to collaboration. Our digital signage software enables the creation of customized content to better convey corporate culture and values. This digital solution supports organizations' cross-functional communication processes. Throughthis solution, we aim to contribute to a greater sense of well-being in the workplace.

How do you create effective cross-functional communication?

For successful cross-functional communication, it's important not to lose sight of certain values, such as open-mindedness. Loosening tongues and encouraging exchange require the creation of a benevolent, non-judgmental space. Creativity can't be unleashed if it's surrounded by prejudice, so it's best to focus on listening and caring. A fundamental value of our democracies, freedom of expression also deserves its place within companies. Cross-functional communication needs a space where speech is free to circulate between all members, with respect for each individual. Horizontal communication thrives in a climate of empowerment, where the voice of all employees is recognized and taken into consideration, despite their hierarchical status. However, this horizontal model is not synonymous with anarchy, and it is just as important to remember the professional framework in which it is expressed, to avoid any form of confusion.

Tools for cross-functional communication

Until now, internal communication in organizations has been mainly via traditional channels. Thanks to cross-functional communication, it's possible to reinvent the way you communicate. It's an opportunity toinnovate and move towards the digital transition. Whether on social networks, via instant messaging or using digital signage, cross-functional communication can be expressed in a variety of ways. Digital signage offers the advantage of distributing the same information to all employees in real time and instantaneously. Each employee's message can be highlighted and enhanced by the screen. In this way, it reinforces the feeling of recognition of the sender, who feels listened to.

The Cenareo solution provides software that enables companies to (re)invent endless communication scenarios . Displaying content and sharing information across the screen is child's play with our remotely-controlled CMS. It's also an opportunity to create a scenario around the company's key moments, to reinforce the sense of cohesion between employees.

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