Explain the interrelatedness of the functions and forms of organizations
Scenario
Imagine you are a new manager at the SNHU Pet Supply Company. The company has grown from a small, local pet-supply company into a large organization with locations in Manchester, New Hampshire and Denver, Colorado. It also employs remote staff. The manager you are replacing was with the team for two years and left on negative terms, which exacerbated an already concerning team culture.
You have been asked to present a management plan that addresses identified areas of concern, rebuilds the team’s culture, and aligns organizational practices to leadership.
Leadership has provided you with a management brief that outlines the key pieces of information you will need in order to make informed recommendations.
Sample Answer
The functions and forms of organizations are deeply interrelated, meaning that how an organization is structured (form) directly influences how it operates (function). A company's structure, whether it's hierarchical, flat, or matrix, determines its communication pathways, decision-making processes, and resource allocation. For example, a flat organizational form is designed to facilitate quick communication and collaboration (functions), while a hierarchical form is set up to provide clear lines of authority and control (functions). The forms we choose are meant to support the functions we need to perform.The functions and forms of organizations are deeply interrelated, meaning that how an organization is structured (form) directly influences how it operates (function). A company's structure, whether it's hierarchical, flat, or matrix, determines its communication pathways, decision-making processes, and resource allocation. For example, a flat organizational form is designed to facilitate quick communication and collaboration (functions), while a hierarchical form is set up to provide clear lines of authority and control (functions). The forms we choose are meant to support the functions we need to perform.