Organizational Structures

Paper Summary:

The paper explores four distinctive types of organizational structures; functional, divisional, lateral and matrix. The paper examines each structure in terms of utility, purpose, strengths and liabilities. The paper concludes that selection of the right organizational structure can maximize the organization's potential to meet stated goals and achieve desirable outcomes.

Outline:
Introduction
Considerations of Organizational Structure
Functional Organizations
Divisional Organizations
Lateral Organizations
Matrix Organizations
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Organizations can take many different forms, and the principle reason for diversity of form is found within the need to meet specific strategic goals. A well-designed organization acquires a structure that facilitates relationships between departments, teams, and individuals. Communication, movement of management directives, and similar organizational traits are integrated into the system, indicating that the associations between labor, job tasks, individual responsibility, and authority all need to be considered when identifying which form of organizational structure is appropriate for a specific organization."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Anderson, T. (1998) Transforming Leadership: Equipping Yourself and Coaching Others. Boca Raton: St. Lucie Press.
• Berry, J. (2005) Offshoring Opportunities: Strategies and Tactics for Global Competitiveness. New York: Wiley.
• Blake, R. & Mouton, J. S. (1984). Solving Costly Organizational Conflicts: Achieving Intergroup Trust, Cooperation, and Teamwork. San Francisco: Jossey Bass.
• Bolman, P. & Deal, L. (2003) Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and Leadership. (3rd Ed.). New York: Jossey- Bass.
• Harvard Business School Press. (2003). Managing Change and Transition. Cambridge (MA): Harvard Business School Press.

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