There is a blockage in the pipe.
A kink in the line.
A short in the circuit.
The communication is not getting through.
There are mixed messages.
Vague instructions.
Unclear directions.
Ambiguity.
Contradiction.
Miscommunication.
Or simply none at all.
Go fix the pipe.
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” – George Bernard Shaw
“It’s the most talented, not the least talented, who are continually trying to improve their dialogue skills. As is often the case, the rich get richer.” – Kerry Patterson
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High, by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler