A line is a fixed pattern of terminals who originate and receive, or receive and relay, orders and information in a company. A particle is on-line when it is sent to the right terminal that handles that particle. A memo is off-line when it is sent to the wrong person. (A person can be off-line as well.
EXAMPLES:
Joe presents himself with a memo to Bill. Joe is off-line because he didn’t use the comm center, which is the correct line for written communication.
Mary needs a new desk. She goes to the Personnel Director to order office furniture. Mary presented herself to the wrong terminal; she is off-line.
