In communication theory, noise refers to any interference that distorts or disrupts the clarity and effectiveness of a message. It can occur at any stage—while encoding, transmitting, or decoding the message.
Let’s break it down with a relatable example involving a text message conversation between two people.
Contents
Examples of Noise in a Text Message Scenario
| Type of Noise | Example | Impact |
| Technical Issues | Poor signal, delayed message delivery, or app crash | Message may not reach the receiver on time |
| Distractions | Loud environment, multitasking, or background noise | Receiver might miss or ignore the message |
| Misinterpretation | Ambiguous phrasing like “Be there by 8:30” interpreted as arrival or start time | Leads to confusion or wrong action |
| Emotional State | Sender or receiver is stressed, angry, or distracted | May lead to misunderstanding or delayed reply |
| Typos/Ambiguity | Mistyped names, wrong numbers, or vague sentences | Message loses clarity or is misread |
Why is Understanding Noise Important?
Whether you’re a journalist, PR professional, or digital content creator, identifying and minimizing noise is key to delivering clear and impactful messages. In mass communication, noise can affect everything from advertising campaigns to public speeches and news reporting.
✅ Key Takeaway
Noise is not just sound—it’s anything that hinders effective communication. It can be technical, emotional, physical, or even semantic. Being aware of it helps you become a better communicator.
The concept of “noise” is integral to several communication models.
Shannon-Weaver Model
- The Shannon-Weaver model introduces “noise” as any disturbance that interferes with the message during transmission—such as static on a call, server lag, or any physical, technical, or even psychological interference that distorts the message.
Berlo’s SMCR Model
- Berlo’s SMCR model does not explicitly include “noise” as a formal component. However, it recognizes that factors affecting the source, message, channel, or receiver—such as unclear language, emotional distractions, or cultural differences—can impact communication. These are often interpreted as forms of “noise” in practical application, even if not labeled as such in the model itself.
Transactional Model
- The Transactional Model views noise broadly, encompassing physical, psychological, semantic, and physiological barriers that can disrupt real-time, two-way communication (such as video calls or interviews). This model explicitly acknowledges that noise can occur at any stage and from multiple sources, affecting both participants in the communication process
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