GMS 200 Lecture Notes - Informal Learning, Cross-Functional Team, Flat Organization

• School: Ryerson University
• Department: Global Management Studies
• Course: GMS 200
• Professor: Shavin Malhotra

Document Summary

Advantages: job specialization, high-quality technical problem solving, in-depth training and skill development, clear career paths within functions, economies of scale with efficient use of resources. Disadvantages: lack of coordination between different functions, delay in turnaround, pass-off failures, functional chimneys problem (a lack of communication and coordination across functions) Divisional structures by geography/products: matrix structures: Advantages: more flexibility, improved coordination, and expertise focused on specific customers, products, and regions. Disadvantages: duplication of resources, competition and poor coordination across divisions, emphasis on divisional goals at expense of organizational goals. Advantages: better cooperation across functions, increased flexibility in restructuring, better customer service, improved decision making, and improved strategic management. Disadvantages: two-boss system is susceptible to power struggles; two-boss system can create task confusion and conflict in work priorities. Network structures: a central core that is linked through networks of relationships with outside contractors and suppliers of essential services own only core components and use strategic alliances or outsourcing to provide other components.