Assignment
CHAPTER THREE: FUNDAMENTALS OF ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What is the definition of organization structure? Does organization structure appear on the organization chart? Explain.
2. When is a functional structure preferable to a divisional structure?
3. Large corporations tend to use hybrid structures. Why?
4. What are the primary differences between a traditional, mechanistic organization designed for efficiency and a more contemporary, organic
organization designed for learning?
5. What is the difference between a task force and a team? Between a liaison role and integrating role? Which of these provides the greatest
amount of horizontal coordination?
6. As a manager, how would you create an organization with a high degree of relational coordination?
7. What conditions usually have to be present before an organization should adopt a matrix structure?
8. The manager of a consumer products firm said, "We use the brand manager position to train future executives." Do you think the brand manager position is a good training ground? Discuss.
9. Why do companies using a horizontal structure have cultures that emphasize openness, employee empowerment, and responsibility? What do you think a manager's job would be like in a horizontally organized company?
10. Describe the virtual network structure. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using this structure compared to performing all activities in-house within an organization?