TOPIC: Communication types question

I read on the Rita Mulcahy book in the following situations:-

Trying to solve a complex problem = Formal Written
Trying to discover the root cause of a problem = Informal Verbal

I would like to know what is the difference we notice between them to have these specific communication types applied?

Ashwin,

It depends on the communication method and choice of media:

• If we are trying to solve a problem by requesting feedback through surveys or using the Delphi technique, then I would consider this to be "formal written".
• If we are doing the same thing just by sending emails, chats or text messages back and forth, then it's "informal written".
• If we are inviting everyone to a meeting with a clearly defined agenda and timetable in order to determine a root cause, then it would be "formal verbal"
• But if we happen to come across an expert in our company's coffee corner and strike up a root cause conversation with her, then that is clearly "informal verbal".

So you see that the "How" is important. You cannot just simply say "solving a complex problem = formal written" without knowing all the aspects of the communication.