ORGANISATIONAL DESIGN 2

Question 1

characteristics of a tall structure

Answer 1

 Lots of layers
 Long-chain of command
 Narrow span of control

Question 2

advantages of a tall structure

Answer 2

+ High levels of control
+ Reduces risks
+ Promotional opportunities

Question 3

disadvantages of a tall structure

Answer 3

• Communication takes a long time
• Slow decision making; less responsive to needs of customers
• Demotivating; lacks creativity
• Expensive as lots of managers

Question 4

characteristics of a flat structure

Answer 4

Few levels of hierarchy
 Short-chain of command
 Wide-span of control

Question 5

advantages of a flat structure

Answer 5

+ Fast communication
+ In touch with customers and workers to remain competitive
+ More motivating for staff

Question 6

disadvantages of a flat structure

Answer 6

• harder to control
• Scope for errors
• More demanding role

Question 7

characteristics of a matrix structure

Answer 7

 Used in a business with multiple products and projects going on
 Key where projects need lots of coordination between functions
 Breaks down barriers between departments
 Teams are formed to carry out a specific project

Question 8

advantages of a matrix structure

Answer 8

+ Motivational

+ Flexible

Question 9

disadvantages of a matrix structure

Answer 9

• Can be expensive

- Can be difficult to coordinate