Horizontal Structure

Question 1

What is organic design?

Answer 1

a contemporary flexible learning organization, which emphasizes horizontal communication and coordination

Question 2

What are the elements of horizontal structure?

Answer 2

o Eliminates vertical hierarchy and departmental boundaries
o Structure is created around cross-functional processes
o Self-directed teams, not individuals, are dominant players
o Process owners are responsible for entire process
o People on the team are given authority for decisions
o Can increase organization’s flexibility
o Customers drive the organization, measured by customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, and financial contribution
o Culture is one of openness, trust, and collaboration; focus on continuous improvement

Question 3

What are the strengths of horizontal structure?

Answer 3

o Flexibility and rapid response to customer need
o Directs attention toward production and delivery of value to the customer
o Each employee has a broader view of organizational goals
o Promotes a focus on teamwork and collaboration
o Improves quality of life for employees by offering opportunity to share responsibility, make decisions, and be accountable for outcomes

Question 4

Role of a horizontal manager?

Answer 4

o More subordinates due to less management layers
o Few managers and power shared broadly amongst employees
o Oversee cross-functional teams
o Facilitator or moderator role
o Delegation of duties, keep the team on track, follow-up with teams

Question 5

What is relational coordination?

Answer 5

• frequent, timely, problem-solving communication carried out through relationships of shared goals, shared knowledge, and mutual respect
• Employees coordinate and collaborate directly with each other across units. Shared goals, knowledge, and mutual respect.
• Built into the fabric and culture of an organization.