Question: Understanding Organizational Structure Think of an organization you are familiar with-a university, restaurant, church, department store, or an organization you have worked for-and answer these questions:
1. What form of structure does the organization use to group people and resources? Draw a diagram showing the major functions. Why do you think the organization uses this form of structure? Would another form of structure (e.g., divisional) be more appropriate?
2. How many levels are there in the organization's hierarchy? Draw a diagram showing the levels in the hierarchy and the job titles of the people at each level. Do you think this organization has the right number of levels in its hierarchy? How centralized or decentralized is authority in the organization?
3. To what degree does the organization use mutual adjustment and standardization to coordinate its activities?
What mechanisms does it use to increase mutual adjustment? Does it use teams or cross-functional teams? What kinds of rules and standard operating procedures does it use?