The Stephen M. Ross School of Business communication department's research and teaching seek to identify, refine and explore the key drivers of effective communication related to business. The focus is on the complexity of achieving communication goals with diverse constituencies through the management of message content and the use and impact of communication technology, timing and systems for distributing information.

Solid empirical research is seen as critical for superior service in the teaching of business communication. Faculty research covers e-mail management, virtual management of international project teams, subordinate reporting and internal/external communication of adverse news. This research is unified by a commitment to develop theoretical frameworks and instruments that contribute to communication decision-making, evaluation of effectiveness and continuous improvement in the global workplace.

The Business Communication group sees its role as providing high-quality teaching based on solid research of business practice. The Ross School of Business provides communication training at all levels, undergraduate, MBA and Global MBA, offering a variety of benchmarking assessments using instruments developed by Michigan Communication faculty. Coursework includes an undergraduate core course, a repertoire of MBA electives (e.g., Communication Management; Communication for the Global Manager; Communication for the Entrepreneur; Management Presentations; and Persuasion for Management) and specialized courses in the School's global programs. Faculty participation on required MBA domestic and international projects is another important departmental contribution.