Question

In a two-person operation, one may specialize in the outward-facing tasks such as sales while the other specializes in the internal jobs such as research and production. In a large firm, there may be vice presidents for each task such as marketing, finance, and HR. These examples represent different types of ______.

A) decentralized authority
B) vertical hierarchy of authority
C) task integration
D) horizontal specialization

Answer 1

The examples provided represent different types of horizontal specialization. This concept refers to the division of labor in which specific tasks or roles are assigned to different individuals or departments, allowing for expertise and efficiency in each area.

Step-by-step explanation:

These examples represent different types of horizontal specialization. Horizontal specialization refers to the division of work within an organization where each individual or team focuses on a specific type of task. In this context, the different types of work, such as sales, marketing, finance, and human resources, are divided among various employees or departments, allowing for a greater focus and expertise in each area. This division allows businesses, from small operations to large corporations, to operate efficiently and effectively by segregating specialized tasks.

Modern businesses, from restaurants to large manufacturing factories, implement horizontal specialization to ensure that each section of the business has skilled individuals or teams handling specific functions. A clear division of labor, as seen within restaurants and hospitals with various job classifications, promotes efficiency and quality in their operations.