OpEd Corner
Would
You Prefer Your Organization "Flat"?
by
Terrance Malkinson
In recent times,
many organizations have moved to restructure themselves into flat
organizations. In doing so, they have eliminated hierarchical levels.
Companies make this change for a number of reasons, including lower
costs and the almost universal use of information technology.
But is a flat
organizational structure better than a hierarchical one in terms of
business productivity and worker effectiveness?
In general, the
hierarchical structure allows for work to be categorized; provides a
predictable career and compensation ladder; establishes clear
accountability; and values experience. On the other hand, it is
expensive, time-consuming and resistant to change. It promotes
self-importance; status; and "buck-passing;" and it tends to
be associated with the term "bureaucracy" and all of it
connotations.
Flat organization
structures promote ownership of tasks; eliminate redundancy; are more
responsive to change; facilitate creativity and innovation; put people
closer — and therefore make them more responsive — to
customers; streamline processes; and empower employees. On the other
hand, flat structures provide fewer opportunities for advancement; put
more responsibility and stress upon individuals; require skilled,
experienced employees; and reduce independent checks, balances, and
controls.
Reader
Poll:
What Do You
Think?
In
today's technical work environment, is a flat organizational
structure an effective one? Why or why not?
Do
flat structures tend to favor the organizations themselves or
their people? Why?
Please send your thoughts, ideas
and suggestions to todaysengineer@ieee.org.
Please be sure to include your name, home city and state, and IEEE
membership status (if applicable).
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Terrance
Malkinson is a proposal manager/documentation specialist with GE
Capital IT Solutions Inc.
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