How is a functional structure different from a divisional structure?
Difference between a functional structure and a divisional structure:
Basis of difference | Functional Structure | Divisional Structure |
---|---|---|
Meaning | An organisation structure in which departments are created on the basis of different functions performed in the organisation is called functional structure. | An organisation structure in which various departments are created on the basis of products, territory or region is called a divisional structure. |
Formation | It is formed on the basis of functions performed in the organisation. | It is formed on the basis of product line territory or region. |
Specialisation | It leads to functional specialisation. | It leads to product specialisation. |
Managerial Development | It does not help in managerial development as functional managers lack autonomy. |
It helps in managerial development, as they have autonomy and knowledge of varied aspects of a product. |
Cost | It is economical as there is no duplication. | It is costlier, as there is duplication of resources. |
Responsibility | It is difficult to fix responsibility in one department. | It is easier to fix responsibility in each division. |
Suitability | It is suitable for organisations which deal with a single product category. | It is suitable for diversified or multi product firms. |
A company X limited manufacturing cosmetics, which has enjoyed a pre-eminent position in business, has grown in size. Its business was very good till 1991. But after that, new liberalised environment has seen entry of many MNC’s in the sector. With the result the market share of X limited has declined. The company had followed a very centralised business model with Directors and divisional heads making even minor decisions. Before 1991 this business model had served the company very well as consumers had no choice. But now the company is under pressure to reform. What organisation structure changes should the company bring about in order to retain its market share? How will the changes suggested by you help the firm? Keep in mind that the sector in which the company is FMCG.
Why delegation is considered essential for effective organising?
A company manufacturing sewing machines set up in 1945 by the British promoters follows formal organisation culture in totality. It is facing lot of problems in delays in decision making. As the result it is not able to adapt to changing business environment. The work force is also not motivated since they cannot vent their grievances except through formal channels, which involve red tape. Employee turnover is high. Its market share is also declining due to changed circumstances and business environment. You are to advise the company with regard to change it should bring about in its organisation structure to overcome the problems faced by it. Give reasons in terms of benefits it will derive from the changes suggested by you.
Neha runs a factory wherein she manufactures shoes. The business has been doing well and she intends to expand by diversifying into leather bags as well as western formal wear thereby making her company a complete provider of corporate wear. This will enable her to market her business unit as the one stop for working women. Which type of structure would you recommend for her expanded organisation and why?
Decentralisation is an optional policy. Explain why an organisation would choose to be decentralised.
Identify the network of social relationships which arises spontaneously due to interaction at work.
Decentralisation is extending delegation to the lowest level. Comment.
A company, which manufactures a popular brand of toys, has been enjoying good market reputation. It has a functional organisational structure with separate departments for Production, Marketing, Finance, Human Resources and Research and Development. Lately to use its brand name and also to cash on to new business opportunities it is thinking to diversify into manufacture of new range of electronic toys for which a new market is emerging. Which organisation structure should be adopted in this situation? Give concrete reasons with regard to benefits the company will derive from the steps it should take.
Can a large sized organisation be totally centralised of decentralised? Give your opinion.
Draw a diagram depicting a functional structure.
How does planning provide direction?
What is meant by staffing?
What is informal communication?
State the meaning of controlling.
What is meant by capital structure?v
What is meant by management?
What is a Treasury Bill?
State any two advantages of branding to marketers of goods and services?
What makes principles of management flexible?
Under which consumer right does a business firm set up consumer grievance cell?
As the marketing manager of a big hotel located at an important tourist destination, what societal concerns would be faced by you and what steps would you plan to take care of these concerns? Discuss.
An organisation provides security services. It requires such candidates who are reliable and don’t leak out the secrets of their clients. What steps should be incorporated in selection process?
What is a Treasury Bill?
What are the advantages of training to the individual and to the organisation?
How does leadership style affect employee performance?
What is the meaning of 'Business Environment'?
Explain the following Principles of management given by Fayol with examples:
a. Unity of direction
b. Equity
c. Espirit de corps
d. Order
e. Centralisation and decentralisation
f. Initiative
How does the socio-cultural environment influence business decisions?
Mr.Arfaaz had been heading the production department of Writewell Products Ltd., a firm manufacturing stationary items. The firm secured an export order that had to be completed on a priority basis and production targets were defined for all the employees. One of the workers, Mr. Bhanu Prasad, fell short of his daily production target by 10 units for two days consecutively. Mr. Arfaaz approached MsVasundhara, the CEO of the Company, to file a complaint against MrBhanu Prasad and requested her to terminate his services. Explain the principle of management control that MsVasundhara should consider while taking her decision. (Hint: Management by exception).
Product is a bundle of utilities. Explain.