Final answer:
Flattening an organization entails removing hierarchical layers, leading to a leaner structure that is more responsive. This business concept emphasizes teamwork and often involves higher management, like directors, working more closely with entry-level employees in a collaborative environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we talk about removing one or more layers of hierarchy to create a flatter organization, we are essentially discussing the reorganization of a company's structure to make it leaner and more responsive. This means reducing the number of management levels between the executive suite and the frontline employees. In doing so, communication can become more direct, decision-making is often quicker, and the organization can adapt more rapidly to changes. In recent years, there has been a shift away from the traditional hierarchical models towards models that emphasize teamwork and collaborative work environments.
This trend has led to scenarios where even a director might solicit feedback from an entry-level employee, signifying a more inclusive approach to decision-making. Egalitarian relationships are encouraged, and it's expected for employees to form collegial relationships with their managers and co-workers. Such flatter organizations are believed to be more innovative due to less bureaucratic resistance to new ideas. In a business context, removing one or more layers of hierarchy creates a flatter organization. This means that there are fewer levels of management between employees and top-level executives. A flatter organization is leaner and more responsive because decision-making is decentralized and communication flows more freely. This allows for quicker response times and increased agility in adapting to changes in the market.