Final answer:
The basis by which jobs are grouped in an organization is referred to as departmentalization, which is a distinctive characteristic of a bureaucracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basis by which jobs are grouped is called departmentalization. When categorizing characteristics of bureaucracies, coercion to join is not typically considered a characteristic. Bureaucracies are formal organizations characterized by a hierarchy of authority, a clear division of labor, explicit rules, and impersonality. These elements are fundamental to the structure and function of bureaucracies, which are prevalent in both governmental and private sector organizations.