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ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
An organizational structure is a system that outlines
how certain activities are directed in order to achieve the goals of an organization. These activities can include rules, roles, and responsibilities.
It defines activities such as task allocation, coordination, and
supervision Organizational structure is the method by which work flows through an organization.
It allows groups to work together within their individual functions
to manage tasks.
Traditional organizational structures tend to be more
formalized—with employees grouped by function (such as finance or operations), region or product line.
Less traditional structures are more loosely woven and flexible,
with the ability to respond quickly to changing business environments. The organizational structure details how certain activities are delegated toward achieving an organization's goal.
It outlines an employee's role and various responsibilities
within a company.
The more authority employees have, the higher up they'll be
on the organizational structure.
In addition, the more organized a structure is, the more
efficiently a company operates. Benefits of organizational structures
● Faster decision making
● Multiple business locations ● Improved operating efficiency ● Greater employee performance ● Eliminates duplication of work ● Reduced employee conflict ● Better communication 1. FUNCTIONAL STRUCTURE
Also known as the bureaucratic organizational structure, functional
structure is based on functions. It means that similar jobs and responsibilities are categorized into groups and departments. This structure is commonly seen in small and medium-sized businesses and is fairly popular. For example, most businesses have finance, marketing and human resources departments, all categorized under similar functions. 2. DIVISIONAL STRUCTURE
As the name suggests, a divisional structure is the integration of
independent units. Such structures are fairly common in large and complex industries, which deal with diverse products and services. Put simply, various teams work towards a single goal in a divisional structure. For example, a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) organization will produce different kinds of products including sauce, noodles, spices and so on. While every branch will have an independent function with its own set of executives and managers, everyone will work towards a common objective of making a sale. 3. FLAT STRUCTURE
Often referred to as a flatarchy, a flat structure is one where the
organization has little to no levels of management. It’s ideal for small organizations with few employees. You’ve probably seen startup businesses implement a flat structure. It provides people with plenty of autonomy and this further allows for speedy implementation of business decisions. As everyone has the opportunity to think out loud and contribute to problem-solving processes, morale increases and there’s more room for communication and collaboration. 4. MATRIX STRUCTURE
A combination of various organizational structures is known as the
matrix structure. In this type, someone may have duties in multiple departments. Employees can have different managers, divisions and/or departments—at the same time. For example, you may be working with and reporting to two managers simultaneously—a project manager along with a functional manager. While it’s a good way of expanding one’s skills and expertise, it’s one of the most confusing structures, hence least preferred too. Organizational Chart An organizational chart is a diagram that visually conveys a company's internal structure by detailing the roles, responsibilities, and relationships between individuals within an entity. Organizational charts are alternatively referred to as "org charts" or "organization charts." Key Elements of Organizational Structures
Five elements create an organizational structure: job design,
departmentation, delegation, span of control and chain of command. These elements comprise an organizational chart and create the organizational structure itself.
"Departmentation" refers to the way an organization structures its jobs
to coordinate work. "Span of control" means the number of individuals who report to a manager. "Chain of command" refers to a line of authority. The company's strategy of managerial centralization or decentralization also influences organizational structures.
"Centralization," the degree to which decision-making authority is
restricted to higher levels of management, typically leads to a pyramid structure. Centralization is generally recommended when conflicting goals and strategies among operating units create a need for a uniform policy. "Decentralization," the degree to which lower levels of the hierarchy have decision-making authority, typically leads to a leaner, flatter organization. Decentralization is recommended when conflicting strategies, uncertainty or complexity require local adaptability and decision-making. Types of Organizational Structures
Organizational structures have evolved from rigid, vertically integrated,
hierarchical, autocratic structures to relatively boundary-less, empowered, networked organizations designed to respond quickly to customer needs with customized products and services.
Today, organizations are usually structured vertically, vertically and
horizontally, or with open boundaries. Specific types of structures within each of these categories are the following:
● Vertical—functional and divisional.
● Vertical and horizontal—matrix. ● Boundary-less (also referred to as "open boundary")—modular, virtual and cellular. Staff and line are names given to different types of functions in organizations. A "line function" is one that directly advances an organization in its core work. This always includes production and sales, and sometimes marketing.[1]
A "staff function" supports the organization with specialized advisory
and support functions. For example, human resources, accounting, public relations and the legal department are generally considered to be staff functions