Difference Between General and Technical Communication

1. Purpose

General Communication: The primary purpose is to share information, ideas, thoughts, or feelings. It
aims to inform, entertain, persuade, or build relationships. Examples include casual conversations,
storytelling, and social media posts.

Technical Communication: The primary purpose is to convey specific technical information and
instructions in a clear, concise, and objective manner. It aims to inform, explain, instruct, or document.
Examples include user manuals, technical reports, and engineering specifications.

2. Audience

General Communication: The audience is often broad and diverse, encompassing people with varying
levels of knowledge and background on the topic being discussed. The language used is typically
accessible and informal.

Technical Communication: The audience is usually specialized, such as professionals, technicians, or

individuals with a certain level of expertise in a particular field. The language used is formal, precise, and
may include technical jargon.

3. Content

General Communication: Content can be varied and includes personal opinions, emotions, anecdotes,
and general information. It is often subjective and flexible in terms of structure and style.

Technical Communication: Content is specific, factual, and objective. It focuses on technical details,
procedures, data, and analysis. The structure is often rigid, with a clear hierarchy and logical flow.

4. Style

General Communication: The style is often informal and conversational. It may use humor, metaphors,
and colloquial expressions. The tone can vary widely depending on the context and the relationship
between the communicators.

Technical Communication: The style is formal, clear, and concise. It avoids ambiguity and is designed
to be easily understood by the intended audience. The tone is usually neutral and impersonal.

5. Format

General Communication: Formats include spoken conversations, emails, social media posts, letters, and
presentations. The choice of format is flexible and depends on the context and the preferences of the
communicators.
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Technical Communication: Formats include technical reports, user manuals, standard operating
procedures, scientific papers, and technical presentations. The format is often dictated by industry
standards and conventions.

6. Detail and Precision

General Communication: May not require high levels of detail or precision. It allows for more
generalizations and approximations.

Technical Communication: Requires high levels of detail and precision. Accuracy is crucial, and
information must be specific and meticulously verified.

7. Visual Aids

General Communication: May use visual aids like photos, videos, and casual infographics, often for
illustrative or entertainment purposes.

Technical Communication: Often relies heavily on diagrams, charts, graphs, schematics, and technical
illustrations to convey complex information clearly and accurately.

Examples:

 General Communication: A conversation about vacation plans, a blog post about a recent event,
a motivational speech.
 Technical Communication: An engineering report on the performance of a new engine, a user
manual for software, a scientific research paper on climate change.

Understanding these differences is crucial for effectively tailoring communication to suit the context and
audience, ensuring the message is conveyed appropriately and effectively.

Difference Between General and Technical Communication On-Board Ship

1. Purpose

General Communication: Aims to share everyday information, build camaraderie, and manage social
interactions among crew members. It is essential for maintaining morale and a positive working
environment.
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Technical Communication: Aims to convey specific technical information related to ship operations,
safety procedures, and maintenance tasks. It is crucial for the safe and efficient functioning of the ship.

2. Audience

General Communication: Involves the entire crew, regardless of rank or specific duties. It is intended
for all crew members and may also include interactions with passengers or visitors.

Technical Communication: Involves crew members with specific roles and responsibilities, such as the
engineering team, navigation officers, and safety officers. It is directed towards those with the technical
knowledge required to understand and act on the information.

3. Content

General Communication: Includes non-work-related topics like social events, personal experiences, and
general announcements. It is often subjective and flexible.

Technical Communication: Includes work-related topics like operating procedures, safety protocols,
technical specifications, and maintenance schedules. It is factual, objective, and detailed.

4. Style

General Communication: Informal and conversational. The tone is friendly and casual, aimed at
fostering good relationships and teamwork.

Technical Communication: Formal, clear, and concise. The tone is neutral and professional, focusing on
accuracy and clarity to ensure correct interpretation and execution of instructions.

5. Format

General Communication: Formats include face-to-face conversations, informal meetings,

announcements, and social gatherings. It can also include informal written notes or messages.

Technical Communication: Formats include written reports, standard operating procedures (SOPs),
technical manuals, checklists, and log entries. It also includes formal briefings and meetings, and the use
of maritime communication systems like VHF radio for navigational and operational messages.

6. Detail and Precision

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General Communication: May not require high levels of detail or precision. It allows for more
generalizations and flexibility.

Technical Communication: Requires high levels of detail and precision. Accuracy is crucial to ensure
safety and proper functioning of ship operations.

7. Visual Aids

General Communication: May use simple visual aids like posters for events, bulletin boards for
announcements, and photos for social activities.

Technical Communication: Often relies on detailed diagrams, technical drawings, charts, maps, and
schematics. Visual aids are used to convey complex technical information clearly and accurately.

Examples On-Board Ship:

General Communication:

o A conversation about leisure activities during off-duty hours.

o An announcement about a crew member's birthday celebration.
o A notice about an upcoming social event or shore leave.

Technical Communication:

o A safety briefing detailing emergency evacuation procedures.

o A technical report on the performance of the ship's engine.
o Instructions for operating and maintaining navigational equipment.

Understanding these differences ensures that communication on-board a ship is effective, with general
communication helping to build a positive working environment and technical communication ensuring
safe and efficient ship operations.

Both types of communication are essential on board a ship but serve different roles and require different
approaches. Effective communication in each area ensures smooth operations, safety, and efficient
teamwork.
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Barriers to Communication and Ways to Overcome Them

1. Language Barriers

 Description: Differences in language and dialects among crew members can lead to
misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Use Standard Maritime Language: Implement the use of Standard Marine
Communication Phrases (SMCP) to ensure clarity and consistency.
o Language Training: Provide language training programs to help crew members improve
their proficiency in the common language used on board.
o Bilingual Crew Members: Employ bilingual crew members or interpreters to facilitate
communication when necessary.

2. Cultural Barriers

 Description: Different cultural backgrounds can lead to varying interpretations of messages,

gestures, and behaviors.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Cultural Sensitivity Training: Conduct training sessions to educate crew members
about different cultures and promote mutual respect.
o Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where crew members feel
comfortable discussing cultural differences and finding common ground.

3. Physical Barriers

 Description: Physical separation, such as being in different parts of the ship or poor
communication infrastructure, can hinder effective communication.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Improved Communication Technology: Ensure reliable communication systems, such
as VHF radios, intercoms, and satellite phones, are in place and well-maintained.
o Regular Meetings: Schedule regular face-to-face meetings to discuss important matters
and ensure everyone is on the same page.

4. Psychological Barriers

 Description: Stress, fatigue, and personal issues can affect a crew member's ability to
communicate effectively.
 Ways to Overcome:
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o Support Systems: Provide access to mental health support and counseling services to
help crew members manage stress and personal issues.
o Promote Work-Life Balance: Implement policies that encourage adequate rest, leisure
time, and social interaction among crew members.

5. Perceptual Barriers

 Description: Different perceptions and interpretations of messages due to individual experiences

and attitudes.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Clarification and Feedback: Encourage feedback and ask for clarification to ensure that
messages are understood as intended.
o Active Listening: Train crew members in active listening techniques to improve
understanding and reduce misinterpretations.

6. Organizational Barriers

 Description: Hierarchical structures and rigid protocols can hinder the free flow of information.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Flatten Hierarchies: Promote a more open and inclusive communication culture where
feedback and ideas are welcomed from all levels.
o Clear Protocols: Establish clear and efficient communication protocols that facilitate the
easy flow of information.

7. Technological Barriers

 Description: Outdated or malfunctioning communication equipment can disrupt effective

communication.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Regular Maintenance: Ensure that all communication equipment is regularly checked,
maintained, and upgraded as necessary.
o Training: Provide training on the proper use of communication tools and technology to
all crew members.

8. Emotional Barriers

 Description: Emotions such as anger, frustration, or fear can cloud judgment and hinder
communication.
 Ways to Overcome:
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o Emotional Intelligence Training: Train crew members in emotional intelligence to help

them manage their emotions and communicate more effectively.
o Foster a Supportive Environment: Create a supportive and non-judgmental
environment where crew members feel safe to express their feelings and concerns.

9. Semantic Barriers

 Description: Misunderstandings due to the use of technical jargon, abbreviations, or complex

language.
 Ways to Overcome:
o Simplify Language: Use simple and clear language, avoiding jargon and technical terms
where possible.
o Glossaries: Provide glossaries or explanations for any technical terms that need to be
used.

Conclusion

By identifying and addressing these barriers to communication, it is possible to enhance the overall
effectiveness of communication on board a ship. Implementing these strategies can lead to improved
safety, efficiency, and crew morale, ultimately contributing to the smooth and successful operation of the
vessel.

Addressing communication barriers involves a proactive approach to understanding and resolving issues
that hinder effective information exchange. By adopting strategies such as simplifying language, using
appropriate technology, fostering cultural sensitivity, and encouraging feedback, communication can be
made more effective. This is particularly important in high-stakes environments like maritime operations,
where clear and accurate communication is essential for safety and efficiency.