Final answer:
In a vertical cross-functional diagram, items in a column are related to their role or function and are useful in representing the hierarchy of authority and the relationship between aspects of a process.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a vertical cross-functional diagram, items ordered in one column are related to their role or function within a process or system. This type of diagram is used to illustrate the hierarchy of authority or to show the relationship between different aspects or components that contribute to an overall process. For example, in a corporate setting, it can represent different departments or specialists that must collaborate to complete a task, with each column representing a different department or function. The items in the column may be tasks, roles, or inputs/outputs relevant to that function.
The labelling of columns typically follows a format of Quantity/units to help users understand what is being represented. Similarly, such structures in market organization or even in the Periodic Table help in finding related items conveniently as similar elements or objects are grouped together.