1) Source: the source is the originator of the idea or the message. It may also be known as the sender who may be an individual or a group though, ultimately, it is an individual who might be acting the role on behalf of a group. The source conceives the idea, prepares the message, selects the channel, and decides about the receiver.
2) Message: it refers to the stimulus that the source transmits to the receiver. It is what communication is all about. Messages are composed of symbols having a certain meaning to the source id called encoding. When the message (symbols etc.) is converted into a certain meaning it is known as decoding. Decoding is done by the receiver. The message should be clearly worded so that is easily understood by the receiver.
3) Channel: the channel is a means through which the message travels from the source to the receiver. The channel may be mass media (not meant for any particular individual) such as newspapers, radio, T.V. etc. or interpersonal (meant for a particular individual) such as telephone, correspondence etc. selection of the channel depends upon the ,message to be conveyed, availability of the channel, cost of the channel, effectiveness of the channel etc.
4) Receiver: the receiver is the person for whom the message is intended. It is the single most important element in the communication process. Any neglect on the part of the receiver may render the communication ineffective.
5) Effect: effect is the change in the behavior of the receiver occurring in response to the message received. The receiver may ignore the message, or store the information received, or act according to the wishes of the source.