Question

You are interested in explaining the different types of organizational designs to students of basic management. These students need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each structure as well as the structure's characteristics. You extol the virtues and benefits of standardization. You are probably promoting the ________.

A) matrix structure
B) virtual organization
C) bureaucracy
D) team structure
E) simple structure

Answer 1

Promoting the virtues and benefits of standardization in organizational designs suggests a promotion of the bureaucratic structure, which is characterized by hierarchical organization, division of labor, and explicit rules.

Step-by-step explanation:

If we are highlighting the virtues and benefits of standardization in discussing organizational designs to students of basic management, we are likely promoting the bureaucracy. A bureaucracy, as defined by the pioneering sociologist Max Weber, is an ideal type of formal organization characterized by a hierarchy of authority, a clear division of labor, explicit rules, and impersonality. The classic version of a bureaucracy is hierarchical and shows the separation of tasks and worker specialization.

The advantages of a bureaucratic structure include enhanced organizational efficiency through standardization, predictable operations, and clear responsibilities which make coordination and control relatively straightforward. Disadvantages can include inflexibility, resistance to change, and a potentially impersonal and demotivating environment for employees.

It is important to note, despite the critique of being slow and unfriendly, many formal organizations, such as schools, businesses, and governments, operate under a bureaucratic structure due to its capacity to handle complex operations and maintain order.