The Purpose of Organizational Structure in Human Resources

An organization's human resources (HR) department undertakes the very vital task of defining and organization's structure. It is this structure that characterizes the organization's hierarchies and the nature of its authority and responsibility configuration. Organizational structure is referred to as an OS. With a well-constructed OS, the reporting mechanism is very clear. Work flows and communication proceed smoothly without any kind of hindrances.

Function

The OS lists the guidelines for an organization to plan, organize and apportion its manpower. Once it is carried out, it becomes easy to achieve organizational goals. OS is used for choosing the plan that utilizes minimal resources that will yield maximum returns.

Features

From the HR perspective, on OS drives employees to their fullest capacities and capabilities. Another very important feature is that by using this structure the HR department is able to classify all the employees of the organization into achievers and non-achievers. The management then takes appropriate steps to further hone the talent of the performers and design manners to draw work out of non-performers.

Types

There are two main broad categories under which OS are categorized. The flat structure is one that is applied by small organizations, such as hotels, restaurants and schools. Here every employee is vested with immense decision-making authority and powers. There are very few levels of command in the organization. As the situation dictates, the employee may change the final product to adhere to a customer's needs. The tall structure is adopted by large businesses. There are several levels of power and authority here. As the scale of operations of any organization grows, it is not practical to have only supreme command. Several functional departments exist in these organizations.

Considerations

Every company and its HR department must consider factors, such as the size of the organization, its product range and client base, before establishing the type of OS. After that, targets and goals can be simply attained.

Benefits

When an OS is drawn, the job of the HR department gets immensely simple. The hierarchical structure is outlined; every employee is apprised of the reporting structure. The work and communication flows are enhanced. The superiors entrust and explain the work that they must accomplish to their subordinates. The subordinates on their part, approach their bosses when they have any doubts on the work entrusted. The main motto of both the parties is to work together to achieve organizational goals.

References

• Doc Stoc: Organizational Structure Outline
• Organizational Structure: Organizational Structure Types and Design Strategy