Flat organisational structure

For management learners globally

Related Links: Flat structure | Matrix Structure | Centralised/Decentralised Structure | Hierarchical Structure | Tall Structure

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In contrast to a tall organisation, a flat organisation will have relatively few layers or just one layer of management. This means that the “Chain of Command” from top to bottom is short and the “span of control is wide”. Due to the small number of management layers, flat organisations are often small organisations.

Diagram: Flat Structure

Advantages of flat Organisations	Disadvantages of flat Organisations
More/Greater communication between management and workers.	Workers may have more than one manager/boss.
Better team sprit.	May limit/hinder the growth of the organisation.
Less bureaucracy and easier decision making.	Structure limited to small organisations such as partnerships, co-operatives and some private limited companies.
Fewer levels of management which includes benefits such as lower costs as managers are generally paid more than worker.	Function of each department/person could be blurred and merge into the job roles of others.

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