Read the Heynold and Rosander article (next in Course Content) and discuss the basic design differences between the two organizational structure models presented, address how each model affects managerial/organizational authority and control, and say which model is better from the standpoint of specialization and coordination. Be constructively critical; agreement with the authors is not required.
Three separate topics have been created in this discussion. Each student is expected to make a significant contribution to the discussion of all three topics
What are the differences in the design models? Compare and contrast the standard airline organizational functional structure model with the hybrid structure based on independent business units. Does the hybrid structure provide too much differentiation? How would support structures be the same or different? To what extent are either models mechanistic vs. organic? Why?
Topic #2: Effect of Model Choice on Managerial Authority and Control
Discussion Topic
Updated
Task: Reply to this topic
2. What effect does the choice of a model have on managerial authority and control? Would there be a greater or fewer numbers of managers in one model versus the other? Greater or lesser span of control? How does this relate to the principle of minimum chain of command? Horizontal vs. vertical differentiation? Rational-legal authority?
Topic #3: Which Model is Better?
Discussion Topic
Updated
Task: Reply to this topic
3. Which model is better from the standpoint of work specialization and coordination? If one model is functional, what model aspects are present in the hybrid structure? How would you improve the hybrid model? Why? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each model as it pertains to coordination? Networking?