Vertical Structure and Horizontal Structure of Organizations Assignment

Vertical Structure and Horizontal Structure of Organizations - Assignment ExampleHorizontal structures involve lateral relations, such as liaison functions, task forces, usual unplanned meetings, and the use of formalized integrator roles.The advantage of a horizontal structure is a possibility of liberal and informal communication. The disadvantage is that this structure is telling and possible only in small organizations. The decentralized decision-making process allows employees greater involvement and fast decision-making. The advantage of vertical structure is greater control and missionary work of authority. The disadvantages are lack of flexibility, decision-making from the top, centralization of authority and bureaucratic control of all activities. The examples of a vertical structure are Ford Motor Company, Toyota and Microsoft. These organizations have centralization of all management functions and require a high level of lateral interdepartmental coordination and commu nication involving unplanned face-to-face meetings and mutual adaptation. Coordination of sequential technologies is best arrant(a) through plans and schedules, whereas coordination of pooled technologies can be accomplished by the use of standard operating procedures (Mullins 304).