Communication channels
Formula
Channels = n (n − 1) ÷ 2, where n = number of people.
Example: 10 people → 10 × 9 ÷ 2 = 45 channels. Adding one person (to 11) jumps it to 55 — communication complexity grows fast.
Three communication methods
| Method | What it is · examples |
|---|---|
| Interactive | Real-time, two-way — meetings, calls, video. Best for complex topics. |
| Push | Sent to specific recipients — email, memos, reports. No confirmation of understanding. |
| Pull | Recipients access at will — intranet, wikis, repositories. For large audiences. |
Five conflict-resolution modes (best → worst)
| Mode | Approach |
|---|---|
| Collaborate / Problem-solve | Win–win; incorporate multiple views to find consensus. Best. |
| Compromise / Reconcile | Each side gives up something; partial satisfaction (lose–lose). |
| Smooth / Accommodate | Emphasize agreement, play down differences. |
| Force / Direct | Impose one view; win–lose. Fast but breeds resentment. |
| Withdraw / Avoid | Retreat from the conflict. Usually worst long-term. |
Mistakes examiners test
- Picking compromise as "best". Collaborate/problem-solve is the preferred mode.
- Forgetting to add yourself. n includes the project manager when counting channels.
- Push vs pull. Push sends to people; pull lets people fetch.
Test yourself
4 quick questions — tap an answer to check it instantly. Nothing is sent anywhere.
1. With 10 people, how many communication channels exist?
Answer: A. n(n−1)/2 = 10 × 9 / 2 = 45.
2. The best conflict-resolution mode is…
Answer: C. Collaborate/problem-solve seeks a win–win and is the preferred approach.
3. Posting info to a wiki for people to fetch is which method?
Answer: C. Pull communication lets recipients access information at will (intranet, wikis).
4. Adding one person (10 → 11) changes channels from 45 to…
Answer: B. 11 × 10 / 2 = 55 — complexity grows fast.
Sources
- Project Management Institute — pmi.org.
- PMI, A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide).
Study summary only. "PMP" and "PMBOK" are marks of the Project Management Institute, which does not endorse this material.