Question

Use your understanding of departmentalization in organizations to answer the questions. © Shutterstock Images Which form of departmentalization is best if the company seeks to minimize duplication of efforts?

A. Function
B. Product
C. Customer
D. Location

Which advantage would you cite if you were advising a company to group jobs by function?

A. Decisions are typically faster and more effective.
B. The organization can respond to unique regional concerns.
C. Coordinating activities inside each department is easier.
D. Tailoring services to meet customer needs is easier.

Now think about span of management as you answer this question. The owner of the business where you work has asked you to assess whether he should restructure reporting relationships at the company to improve the ability of employees to meet the needs of customers. What do you recommend? Check all that apply.

A. A flatter structure should result in higher levels of employee morale and productivity.
B. A flatter structure will further centralize decision making.
C. A taller structure will improve the speed at which decisions are implemented.
D. A taller structure will decrease administrative costs.

Answer 1

1: a. Function

2: C. Coordinating activities inside each department is easier.

3: A. A flatter structure should result in higher levels of employee morale and productivity.

B. A flatter structure will further centralize decision making.

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Function departmentalization aims to group employees with similar jobs or activities together thereby reducing duplication of effort.

2. Each department in Functional departmentilization are of similar qualification, skills and experience, it is therefore easier their activities.

3. Flatter structures provide more opportunities for the employees. The focus is rather on the employees than the chain of command. Therefore if the owner

of the business wants to improve the ability of employees to meet the needs of customers, he will need to utilize the flatter structure type of organization to empower the employees to meet the customers needs.