Final answer:
The correct answer is option d. The disadvantage not associated with a functional structure is a fast decision-making process, which is typically an advantage or characteristic of more agile organizational designs. Bureaucracies are intended to increase productivity and efficiency but may lead to issues such as limited flexibility and poor communication. The McDonaldization of society can result in reduced variety of goods and higher prices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functional structure of an organization divides the company into departments, each of which is tasked with specific, function-related responsibilities. Among the potential disadvantages of a functional structure are limited flexibility, poor communication between departments, and duplication of resources.
However, fast decision-making process is not typically considered a disadvantage of the functional structure. Instead, this structure often results in slowed decision-making due to departmentalization and the need for decisions to ascend through a hierarchy of authority. A fast decision-making process would more likely be seen as an advantage or characteristic of a more flat or agile organizational design.
Bureaucracies within a functional structure can lead to disadvantages like discouragement of new ideas, little flexibility on a day-to-day basis, and a lack of incentive to work hard or improve. On the other hand, some intended positive aspects of bureaucracies include increased productivity and increased efficiency. The concept of McDonaldization posits that society adapts the characteristics of a fast-food restaurant, which can lead to disadvantages such as less variety of goods and potentially higher prices due to less competition.