organisational structures

• What does organisational structure refer to?

  It refers to the different levels of formal power within an organisation.
• Why is organisational structure important in a business?

  It helps clarify who is in charge, who answers to whom, and how communication flows.
• How does organisational structure clarify lines of responsibility?

  It specifies who reports to whom and who their supervisor is.
• What do employees understand through organisational structure?

  They understand the correct channels for communication.
• What aspects are clearly defined at higher levels of organisational structure?

  Job roles, accountability, and pay are clearly defined.
• How might employees feel motivated within an organisational structure?

  They may be motivated by the possibility of taking on more responsibility as they move up.
• What are the key points of organisational structure?

  • Clarifies lines of responsibility and authority
  • Each employee knows who to report to
  • Ensures understanding of communication channels
  • Clearly defines job roles, accountability, and pay
  • Motivates employees to take on more responsibility
• What is a flat structure in an organization?

  A structure with few management layers overseeing more employees directly
• How does a flat structure benefit decision-making?

  It allows for faster decisions and communication
• What characterizes a hierarchical structure?

  A multi-layered structure with a clear chain of command
• What is the role of each level of management in a hierarchical structure?

  Each level oversees the level below
• What is an organisational chart?

  A visual diagram showing an organisation's internal structure
• What does an organisational chart illustrate?

  It illustrates reporting lines and roles within the organization
• What is the main advantage of a flat structure in terms of management layers?

  It has few management layers
• Why might an organization choose a hierarchical structure?

  To establish a clear chain of command
• How do flat and hierarchical structures differ in terms of employee oversight?

  Flat structures have managers overseeing more employees directly
• What is a flat structure in an organization?

  A flat structure is an organizational design with few or no levels of middle management.
• What are the advantages of a flat structure?

  • Faster communication and decision-making
  • Cost-effective due to fewer managers
  • Increased responsibility for employees
  • Encourages teamwork among employees
• Why does a flat structure lead to faster communication and decision-making?

  Fewer layers mean information flows quickly between levels.
• How does a flat structure impact costs?

  It is cost-effective due to fewer managers reducing salary and overhead costs.
• What effect does a flat structure have on employee responsibility?

  Employees often have more autonomy, leading to higher job satisfaction.
• How does a flat structure encourage teamwork?

  With fewer levels, employees may collaborate more closely with managers and peers.
• What are the disadvantages of a flat structure?

  • Heavier workload for managers
  • Less supervision for employees
  • Limited promotion opportunities
  • Risk of overworking and stress
• What is a challenge faced by managers in a flat structure?

  Each manager oversees more employees, which can be challenging.
• How does a flat structure affect employee supervision?

  Employees may have less guidance, which can lead to inconsistencies.
• What is a consequence of limited promotion opportunities in a flat structure?

  Fewer levels mean fewer chances for advancement.
• What risk do managers and employees face in a flat structure?

  They might feel overwhelmed by the broader responsibilities.
• What is one advantage of a hierarchical structure in an organization?

  Clear authority and responsibility
• How does a hierarchical structure provide opportunities for promotion?

  It offers career progression, which can motivate employees
• What is the benefit of specialization in a hierarchical structure?

  Each level can focus on specific tasks and expertise, increasing efficiency
• Why is accountability easier in a hierarchical structure?

  Due to well-defined roles, it is easier to monitor and evaluate employee performance
• What is a disadvantage of a hierarchical structure related to communication?

  Slow communication due to messages passing through several layers
• How does a hierarchical structure lead to higher costs?

  More managers mean higher salaries and administrative costs
• What is a consequence of less flexibility in a hierarchical structure?

  It can make it harder to adapt to changes
• How can employee isolation occur in a hierarchical structure?

  Workers may feel disconnected from higher management and the overall vision
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of a hierarchical structure?

  Advantages:

  • Clear authority and responsibility
  • Opportunities for promotion
  • Specialisation increases efficiency
  • Easier accountability

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Slow communication
  • Higher costs due to more managers
  • Less flexibility to adapt to changes
  • Employee isolation from management
• What is a centralised organisation?

  A centralised organisation is one where most decision-making takes place at the head office or top levels of management.
• What is a key characteristic of a centralised organisation regarding local branches?

  Local branches or departments have limited authority and must follow decisions made by central leadership.
• What are the benefits of a centralised organisation?

  • Decisions consider the entire organisation, ensuring consistency.
  • Faster decision-making without needing input from multiple levels.
  • Easier to maintain a unified company culture and standardised practices.
• What are the drawbacks of a centralised organisation?

  • Can be slow to respond to local needs and market changes.
  • Limited input from local managers can reduce their job satisfaction and motivation.
  • Reduces flexibility, as local staff may not be able to make immediate decisions.