2.5 - making human resource decisions Flashcards
what is an organizational structure
how a business organises its staff to represent the different layers of management.
What is a hierarchical structure
Also known as a tall structure
Has many layers of management, and businesses with this structure often use a ‘top-down’ approach with a long chain of command
managers will have a narrow span of control and a relatively small number of subordinates (staff).
What is a flat structure
only a few layers of management.
managers have a wide span of control with more subordinates, and there is usually a short chain of command.
Flat organisational structures are commonly used by smaller businesses or those adopting a more modern approach to management.
Define span of control
the number of staff that a manager has responsibility for
Define chain of command
the route by which instructions and communications flow from the top to the bottom of a business, explaining who is answerable to whom
Define delayering
a process where a business removes layers of its management to make its structure more flat
define delegation
a process where tasks are given to members of staff, where often managers give tasks to employees further down the chain of command
define subordinates
members of staff below a manager in the chain of command
What is a centralised organisational structure
Where business decisions are made at the top of the business or in a head office and distributed down the chain of command
What is a decentralised organisational structure
where a business allows decisions to be made by managers and subordinates further down the chain. This structure provides staff with more decision-making responsibilities
What are 4 advantages of a centralised management structure
consistency across the business
the business has a clear direction
operations and decisions are closely controlled and managed
the chain of command and accountability are clear
What are 4 disadvantages of a centralised management structure
it can demotivate employees
a standardised approach may not work in all business locations
it may lower productivity
What are 3 advantages of a decentralised management structure
improved employee motivation
allowing managers lower down the chain to make decisions to suit their local area and customers
more responsibility for employees
What are 3 disadvantages of a decentralised management structure
consistency is not achieved across the business
managers can make ineffective decisions
may negatively impact sales and overall business performance, eg because of ineffective decisions by managers lower down the chain
What are flexible hours
You are given a set amount of hours per week and you can choose when you work those hours