Organization Structure and Behavior - Manipal University Jaipur

Organizational Structure and Functions

• Structural framework is essential for functions like planning, decision-making, and communication within an organization.
• Organizations are defined as a system of coordinated activities by two or more people working together towards a common goal (Koontz and O'Donnell).

Vertical Dimension of Structure

• The vertical dimension represents the hierarchy within an organization, indicating levels of authority and reporting relationships.
• As one moves higher in the organizational hierarchy, authority typically increases while responsibility becomes more strategic and cumulative.

Organization Types and Structures

• Functional organizational structure illustrates job differentiation into various departments based on specialized functions.
• Three types of organization structures based on authority and responsibility patterns include:
  • Line structure
  • Functional structure
  • Matrix structure

Key Organizational Concepts

• 'Span of control' refers to the number of subordinates managed by a supervisor, influencing managerial effectiveness and workload.
• 'Authority' involves the power to make decisions, reward or discipline employees, and issue directives within the organizational structure.
• 'Centralization' pertains to the concentration of decision-making authority at the top levels of the organization, affecting flexibility and responsiveness.

Documentation and Rules

• The extent to which rules, procedures, policies, norms, and communications are documented is known as formalization within the organizational structure.
• 'Specialization' applies when tasks are divided among individuals or groups based on expertise, improving efficiency and productivity.

Responsibilities and Strategy

• The distribution and assignment of responsibilities according to social structures characterize the concept of division of labor within an organization.
• An organization's strategy aims to outline how it will achieve its goals and competitive advantage in the marketplace.
• The organizational structure specifies both authorities and responsibilities, clarifying roles within the organization.

Organizing and Guidance

• Organizing involves arranging resources and tasks to achieve objectives, ensuring clarity and efficiency in workflow.
• To ensure members achieve outcomes, there must be clear communication and alignment of individual responsibilities with organizational goals.
• Rules, procedures, and policies guide the organization by providing frameworks for decision-making and behavior standards.
• Each organizational element must coordinate and complement the others to function effectively in reaching shared objectives.

Learn about the structural framework of an organization and its functions such as planning, decision-making, communication, motivation, and more. Explore the formal structure of organizations according to Koontz and O'Donnell's definition. This content is from Manipal University Jaipur, on page 21 of Organizational Behaviour Unit 2.