Which of the following is a difference between organic structures and mechanistic structures?

Which of the following is a difference between organic structures and mechanistic structures?

For the most part, mechanistic organization is applied to most all business structures but is predominant in manufacturing while organic organization is best applied to businesses that apply a more open business structure such as online business platforms.

MECHANISTIC ORGANIZATION DEFINITION: According to Black’s Law Dictionary mechanistic organization is “the organization is hierarchical and bureaucratic. It is characterized by its (1) highly centralized authority, (2) formalized procedures and practices, and (3) specialized functions. Mechanistic organization is relatively easier and simpler to organize, but rapid change is very challenging. Contrast to organic organization.”

CHARACTERISTICS: Employees are found to work separately and on their own assigned tasks. There is a definite chain of command and decisions are kept as high up the chain as possible. Communication is a process between managers and supervisors up to executives, there is little daily interaction if any. There are strict company policies or operating standards with an abundance of documentation. This structure is considered the more stable of the two structures.

STRUCTURE: Companies in a mechanistic organization structure typically hold tight control, over processes and employees; with an iron fist so to speak. Rules are implemented and rarely deviated from while there is also a very clear chain of command to delegate responsibilities and power throughout the organization. Again, it is manufacturing companies that are well known for this type of structure but there are other groups that benefit from mechanistic organization; like universities.

ORGANIC ORGANIZATION DEFINITION: According to BusinessDictionary.com, organic organization is characterized by “(1) Flatness: communications and interactions are horizontal, (2) Low specialization: knowledgeresides wherever it is most useful, and (3) Decentralization: great deal of formal and informal participation in decision making.”

CHARACTERISTICS: Employees are often found working in groups and share input on tasks. There are usually teams that handle one task. Communication is open between employees, managers and executives though they are typically just known as ‘the owner’. There is a greater scale of verbal communication between parties. There is also more face-to-face time within the hierarchy of power.

STRUCTURE: Companies in an organic organization structure typically have a more open communication and contribution to tasks at hand. The structure of the business is more adaptable and flexible to changes. The environment is unpredictable but because of the freedom afforded the employees and management it is better maintained. Good examples of this type of structure would be Google and the coveted positions that lie within the Facebook Corporation. Organic organizations have quickly realized that a happy workplace makes for a happy employee.

This article will help you to differentiate between mechanistic and organic organisation structure.

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.

What is the difference between an organic structure and a mechanistic structure?

What are mechanistic and organic organizational structures? A mechanistic organizational structure is characterized by high centralization, complexity, and formalization. On the other hand, an organic organizational structure is characterized by low centralization, low formalization, and low complexity.

Which of the following is a difference between organic structures and mechanistic structures quizlet?

Which of the following is a difference between a mechanistic organizational structure and an organic organizational structure? A mechanistic structure follows functional departmentalization, whereas an organic structure follows divisional departmentalization.

What are mechanistic structures?

A mechanistic organization is an organizational structure with centralized authority, divisions between departments and specialized roles that work independently of each other. Companies that have mechanistic structures run similarly to bureaucracies in which an established chain of command manages business operations.

What are organic structures?

An organic organisational structure is one which is fluid and flexible. It is associated with decentralised decision-making, flat hierarchies, wide spans of control, informal communication and an ability to embrace change.