The option "the structure encourages training for top management" is not aligned with the divisional structure's emphasis on decentralized decision-making and autonomy for individual divisions. Thus, the correct option is B.
The divisional structure of an organization offers several advantages, but the one that does not align with the benefits is "the structure encourages training for top management." Unlike the other options, the divisional structure primarily emphasizes decentralization, allowing divisions or units to operate autonomously. In this setup, top management may have less emphasis on centralized training programs, as decision-making authority is delegated to individual divisions. Instead, the focus is often on empowering divisional leaders to make strategic choices based on their specific market or product knowledge.
The other options highlight the strengths of the divisional structure. It promotes expertise development by allowing specialized units, increases accountability as divisions are responsible for their performance, accommodates change and expansion through flexible divisional units, and focuses attention on key activities, aligning resources with specific business functions. Therefore, in the context of the divisional structure, the encouragement of training for top management does not directly align with its decentralized nature and autonomy granted to individual divisions.
So, the correct option is B: B) The structure encourages training for top management.
Complete question below:
Which of the following is NOT an advantage of the divisional structure?
A) The structure facilitates the development of expertise in various areas of the company.
B) The structure encourages training for top management.
C) The structure increases accountability.
D) The structure accommodates change and expansion.
E) The structure focuses attention on the key activities that must be performed.