MINTZBERG, H., VAN DER HEYDEN, L. (1999). ORGANIGRAPHS: DRAWING HOW COMPANIES REALLY WORK Flashcards
What is an organigraph?
An organigraph is a visual representation that shows how a company really works, depicting critical interactions among people, products, and information.
How do organigraphs differ from traditional organizational charts?
Traditional organizational charts show hierarchical relationships with boxes and lines
organigraphs use components like sets, chains, hubs, and webs to illustrate more complex and dynamic relationships.
What are the basic forms of organizing depicted in organigraphs?
The basic forms include sets, chains, hubs, and webs.
What is a set in the context of organigraphs?
A set is a collection of items, such as machines or people, that operate independently but share common resources. Examples include professional service firms and divisions of a conglomerate.
What is a chain in the context of organigraphs?
A chain represents a linear process where materials are transformed step-by-step, such as an assembly line in a factory.
What is a hub in the context of organigraphs?
A hub is a coordinating center where people, things, or information move to and from a focal point. Examples include airports, schools, and core competencies.
What is a web in the context of organigraphs?
A web is a network with no central point, allowing open-ended communication and continuous movement of people and ideas. Examples include new product development and complex projects like the Olympic Games.
How can organigraphs help managers?
Organigraphs help managers understand how their companies work, identify critical relationships, and explore strategic options. They can stimulate conversations about managing operations and making strategic decisions.
How can core competencies be depicted in organigraphs?
Core competencies can be depicted as hubs to which all activities relate, as shown in the organigraph of Frontec, where people development and business development are central competencies.
What are the four philosophies of managing depicted in organigraphs?
The four philosophies are allocating in the set, controlling in the chain, coordinating in the hub, and energizing in the web.
How does the concept of management differ in hubs and webs compared to traditional hierarchies?
In hubs, management is at the center, coordinating activities, while in webs, management is everywhere, facilitating collaboration and energizing the network. This contrasts with traditional hierarchies where management is at the top, controlling operations.
