Organizational Structure
Candlefocus EditorOrganizational Structure helps managers to determine how many people are needed to reach a goal and who should work on each task or project. By outlining each employee's job and how their work fits in the overall system, it provides clarity, guidance, and order to the organization and its employees.
Successful organizational structures can take many forms; for example, a functional structure is based on employee specialties, such as sales, marketing, and accounting, while a flatarchy (or star) structure focuses on collaboration between individuals rather than a traditional hierarchical structure. Divisional structures separate departments, who may be located in different geographical locations, while a matrix structure combines elements of both functional and divisional structures.
Senior leaders should consider multiple factors when deciding which type of organizational structure is best for their business. These factors include the business goals, the industry that the organization operates in, and the culture within the company. For example, a centralized structure may be more effective in large organizations with numerous hierarchies, while a decentralized model may be better suited for small companies that allow each employee a large degree of personal agency.
Ultimately, to build an organizational structure that works, senior leaders and human resource professionals must craft an effective structure that supports the company's goals, mission, and values. A well-defined organizational structure will ensure that every employee understands their role, as well as the roles of others within the organization, and that processes are followed to support the company's greater mission.