Communication between individuals is determined to be successful when the meaning of the message understood by the recipient matches the meaning intended by the sender. For data networks, we use the same basic criteria to judge success. However, as a message moves through the network, many factors can prevent the message from reaching the recipient or distort its intended meaning. These factors can be either external or internal.
External Quality of Service (QoS) Factors
The external factors affecting data communication are related to the complexity of the network and the number of devices a message must pass through on its route to its final destination.
External factors affecting the success of communication include:
- The quality of the pathway between the sender and the recipient
- The number of times the message has to change form
- The number of times the message has to be redirected or readdressed
- The number of other messages being transmitted simultaneously on the communication network
- The amount of time allotted for successful communication
The figures illustrate two of these external factors. They will be discussed in greater detail throughout the course.