ABSTRACT
Organizations are living systems with numerous subsystems exchanging energy, information, and meaning through a mirage of networks and channels. These pulsating veins carry the messages critical to the survival, operation, and success of the system. Dubbed networks and channels, there are important differences between these two concepts. Networks are similar to the pathways and roads that develop over time in any community, whereas channels are closer to the well-planned and generally accepted routes. Networks can occur spontaneously. Channels usually are prescribed and restricted.
