Chapter 15 Vocab

Question 1

Organizational Structure

Answer 1

The way in which job tasks are formally divided, grouped, and coordinated.

Question 2

Work Specialization

Answer 2

The degree to which tasks in an organization are subdivided into separate jobs.

Question 3

Departmentalization

Answer 3

The basis by which jobs in an organization are grouped together.

Question 4

Chain of Command

Answer 4

The unbroken line of authority that extends from the top of the organization to the lowest echelon and clarifies who reports to whom.

Question 5

Authority

Answer 5

The rights inherent in a managerial position to give orders and to expect the orders to be obeyed.

Question 6

Unity of Command

Answer 6

The idea that a subordinate should have only one superior to whom he or she is directly responsible.

Question 7

Span of Control

Answer 7

The number of subordinates a manager can efficiently and effectively direct.

Question 8

Centralization

Answer 8

The degree to which decision making is concentrated at a single point in an organization.

Question 9

Formalization

Answer 9

The degree to which jobs within an organization are standardized.

Question 10

Simple Structure

Answer 10

An organization structure characterized by a low degree of departmentalization, wide spans of control, authority centralized in a single person, and little formalization.

Question 11

Bureaucracy

Answer 11

An organization structure with highly routine operating tasks achieved through specialization, very formalized rules and regulations, tasks that are grouped into functional departments, centralized authority, narrow spans of control, and decision making that follows the chain of command.

Question 12

Matrix Structure

Answer 12

An organization structure that creates dual lines of authority and combines functional and product departmentalization.

Question 13

Virtual Organization

Answer 13

A small, core organization that outsources major business functions.

Question 14

Boundaryless Organization

Answer 14

An organization that seeks to eliminate the chain of command, have limitless spans of control, and replace departments with empowered teams.

Question 15

Mechanistic Model

Answer 15

A structure characterized by extensive departmentalization, high formalization, a limited information network, and centralization.

Question 16

Organic Model

Answer 16

A structure that is flat, uses cross-hierarchial and cross-functional teams, has low formalization, possesses a comprehensive information network, and relies on participative decision making.

Question 17

Innovation Strategy

Answer 17

A strategy that emphasizes the introduction of major new products and services.

Question 18

Cost-minimization Strategy

Answer 18

A strategy that emphasizes tight cost controls, avoidance of unnecessary innovation or marketing expenses, and price cutting.

Question 19

Imitation Strategy

Answer 19

A strategy that seeks to move into new products or new markets only after their viability has already been proven.

Question 20

Technology

Answer 20

The way in which an organization transfers its inputs into outputs.

Question 21

Environment

Answer 21

Institutions or forces outside an organization that potentially affect the organization’s performance.

Question 22

What are the six key elements that define an organization’s structure?

Answer 22

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Question 23

What is a bureaucracy, and how does it differ from a simple structure?

Answer 23

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Question 24

What is a matrix organization?

Answer 24

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Question 25

What are the characteristics of a virtual organization?

Answer 25

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Question 26

How can managers create a boundary less organization?

Answer 26

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Question 27

Why do organizational structures differ, and what is the difference between a mechanistic structure and an organic structure?

Answer 27

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Question 28

What are the behavioral implications of different organizational designs?

Answer 28

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