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?
What are the factors affecting determination of the price of a product or service? Explain.
Explain the principle of ‘Scalar Chain’ and gang plank.
A firm plans in advance and has a sound organisation structure with efficient supervisory staff and control system but on several occasion it finds that plans are not being adhered to. It leads to confusion and duplication of work. Advise remedy.
Explain different financial and non-financial incentives used to motivate employees of a company?
How would you characterize the business environment? Explain with examples, the difference between general and specific environment.
How would you argue that the success of a business enterprise is significantly influenced by its environment?
A company ‘M’ limited is manufacturing mobile phones both for domestic Indian market as well as for export. It had enjoyed a substantial market share and also had a loyal customer following. But lately it has been experiencing problems because its targets have not been met with regard to sales and customer satisfaction. Also mobile market in India has grown tremendously and new players have come with better technology and pricing. This is causing problems for the company. It is planning to revamp its controlling system and take other steps necessary to rectify the problems it is facing.
a. Identify the benefits the company will derive from a good control system.
b. How can the company relate its planning with control in this line of business to ensure that its plans are actually implemented and targets attained.
c. Give the steps in the control process that the company should follow to remove the problems it is facing.
What are the factors that influence a company’s capital structure? Discuss in detail.
India’s largest domestic investor Life Insurance Corporation of India has once again come to government’s rescue by subscribing 70% of Hindustan Aeronautics’ ₹4,200-crore initial public offering.
a. Which market is being reflected in the above case?
b. State which method of floatation in the above identified market is being highlighted in the case? (Primary Market)
c. Explain any two other methods of floatation. (Private Placement, Offer through prospectus, offer for sale).
Differentiate between Money Market and Capital Market.