OD Step 3-Configuration and Complexity Flashcards
Flat complexity
an organization with many jobs at the bottom and few levels bottom to top; high horizontal differentiation and low vertical differentiation
Functional configuration
tasks are assigned by specialization of work; tasks are grouped by skilled requirements
Functional specialization
the primary partitioning of the firm’s task into smaller specialized tasks and the efficient completion of each task
Horizontal differentiation
the degree of task specialization across the hierarchy
Jello effect
the situation where a small change in one part of the organization requires change and adjustment throughout the organization
Matrix configuration
a combination of a functional and divisional form a dual focus; a dual hierarchy
Organizational complexity
the vertical and horizontal differentiation dimensions of the organization; the shape of the organization
Product/service/customer orientation
the primary partitioning of the firm’s task into smaller tasks by the output orientation and their effective completion
Simple configuration
tasks or work activities are specified on an ongoing basis rather than in advance; an organization where one individual, the boss, is responsible for all activities; the organization chart usually shows all employees reporting to one person
Span of control
the horizontal complexity or width of the organization, usually measured as the number of individuals reporting to a manager
Symmetric complexity
an organization with a balance of specific jobs and levels; neither tall nor flat; high on both horizontal and vertical differentiation
Tall complexity
an organization with a large number of levels from bottom to top; low horizontal differentiation and high vertical differentiation
Vertical differentiation
the depth of the hierarchy; total number of levels, top to bottom
