A theory or model may also serve as an organizing representation showing the relationships between elements. For example, most communication models show at a basic level the relationships between a producer, receiver, the medium of expression and the message or meaning. A theory or model may also be used to explain how or why the process of communication occurs. Like the descriptive function of the theory, explanatory theories explore the relationship among the elements of the communication. Some explanatory theories and models also account for outcomes or effects of communication.
Models also serve as a tool to predict.
Along with describing, explaining and predicting patterns of communication, a model may also perform a reforming function. What this means, especially when used in interpretative or critical schools of communication theory, is that the model challenges assumptions about communication that have been taken for granted. It generates new ways of living and relating and creates new ways of seeing how communication occurs. The model, as a different way of looking at communication, causes us to re-evaluate how we think the world around us works and in turn challenges us to change our patterns of communication. For instance, studies in gender and communication challenge traditionally defined male and female roles.