PSYC 142 UCR - CHAPTER 15 — Organizational Structure, Culture & Development

Differentiation

Dividing tasks into specialized subtasks.

Integration

Coordinating different parts of an organization.

Centralization

Decision-making at the top levels.

Decentralization

Decision-making spread throughout lower levels.

Chain of command

Number of authority levels.

Span of control

Number of subordinates reporting to one manager.

Tall structure

Many levels, narrow control.

Flat structure

Few levels, wide control.

Functional structure

Organized by business function (marketing, HR, etc.).

Product structure

Organized around products.

Division structure

Organized by the type of service/product category.

Customer structure

Organized around customer groups.

Geographical structure

Organized by region.

Matrix structure

Dual reporting to both function and product managers.

Network structure

Central hub outsources functions to external specialists.

Organizational culture

Shared values, beliefs, assumptions, and behaviors within an organization.

Artifacts

Visible cultural elements (logos, dress, rituals).

Values

Beliefs about preferred behaviors or outcomes.

Assumptions

Deep, hidden core beliefs that shape culture.

Organizational development

Helping organizations prepare for and manage change.

Action research

Diagnosing problems → designing interventions → implementing → evaluating.

Examples of OD techniques

Survey feedback, T-groups, team building, process consultation, MBO, quality circles.