Organizational Structure Basics

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What is the primary purpose of an organizational chart?

To balance the need for integration and differentiation
To establish a unified organizational culture
To ensure adaptability and flexibility within the organization
To provide a visual representation of the organizational structure (correct)

What principle helps to reduce confusion and prevent conflicting instructions within an organization?

Organizational Culture
Unity of Command (correct)
Adaptability and Flexibility
Integration and Differentiation

What is the primary role of organizational culture in shaping an organization's structure?

It establishes the organizational chart
It influences how the structure is perceived and how individuals interact (correct)
It ensures unity of command
It balances integration and differentiation

What is the result of an organization's inability to adapt to changes in its internal and external environment?

Inefficient operations (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of balancing integration and differentiation within an organization?

To ensure efficient operations while allowing for specialized functions (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the shared values, beliefs, and norms that shape behavior and decision-making within an organization?

Organizational Culture (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of leadership in shaping organizational structure?

To align structural design with cultural values (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary influence of organizational culture on structure?

It influences the design and management of the organization (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following case studies is most likely to illustrate how companies align structure with cultural values?

A company that has successfully aligned its structure with its cultural values (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary relationship between organizational culture and leadership in shaping structure?

Leadership influences culture, which in turn shapes structure (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the contingency approach to organizational design?

Managing environmental uncertainty (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of organizational culture in shaping human resource policies and practices?

It shapes the human resource policies and practices (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of an organic organization in terms of employee involvement?

Encouraged employee involvement and participation (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of mechanistic organizations in terms of job design?

Clearly defined job roles and responsibilities (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of organic organizations in terms of coordination?

Flexible coordination, often through informal networks (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of mechanistic organizations in terms of response to environmental changes?

Slow response to environmental changes (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of organic organizations in terms of structure?

Flexible and decentralized structure (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of mechanistic organizations in terms of decision-making authority?

Centralized decision-making by top management (A) Signup and view all the answers