Question

Types of mechanistic and organic structures of organization

Answer 1

Difference # Mechanistic Organisation Structure:

1. Mechanistic organisation structure is pyramid shaped with authority centralised at the top.

2. It follows hierarchy of command.

3. Mechanistic organisation structure emphasises on narrow span of control.

4. There is intense division of labour and work is divided into specialised tasks.

5. People consider individual goals as different from organisational goals.

6. Tasks are performed according to position in the hierarchy. People at lower levels perform comparatively simpler tasks.

7. Tasks are performed according to discretions and desires of managers at the top.

8. Communication is hierarchical; orders, instructions and commands flow from top to bottom.

9. Mechanistic organisation structure expects subordinates to obey and be loyal to superiors and the organisation.

10. Control is exercised from the top.

11. Mechanistic organisation structure is an appropriate form of structure for organisations operating in a stable environment.

Difference # Organic Organisation Structure:

1. Organic organisation structure is flat shaped with authority decentralised to lower levels of management.

2. Organic organisation structure  does not follow hierarchy of command.

3. It emphasises on wide span of control.

4. Work is divided into general tasks and there is little or no specialisation.

5. There is synchronization of individual goals with organisational goals.

6. Tasks are assigned to people according to their capabilities and skills and not hierarchical positions.

7. Tasks are flexible; they keep changing according to situations. They are performed through constant interaction of people.

8. Communication is a network. It flows in all directions in the form of suggestions, advises and information rather than orders.

9. Organic organisation structure expects commitment to the organisational goals and not obedience from subordinates.

10. There is self-control.

11. Organic organisation structure is more suitable for organisations operating in a dynamic environment.