structured

(adjective)

The state of being organized.

Related Terms

Examples of structured in the following topics:

  • Ownership Structures

  • Matrix Structure

    • The matrix structure is a type of organizational structure in which individuals are grouped via two operational frames.
    • Organizations can be structured in various ways, and the structure of an organization determines how it operates and performs.
    • The matrix structure is a type of organizational structure in which individuals are grouped by two different operational perspectives simultaneously; this structure has both advantages and disadvantages but is generally best employed by companies large enough to justify the increased complexity.
    • This example illustrates how inherently complex matrix structures are in comparison to other, more linear structures.
    • In a matrix structure, the organization is grouped by both product and function.

  • Functional Structure

    • An organization with a functional structure is divided based on functional areas, such as IT, finance, or marketing.
    • An organization can be arranged according to a variety of structures, which determine how the organization will operate and perform.
    • Functional structures appear in a variety of organizations across many industries.
    • This organizational chart shows a broad functional structure at FedEx.
    • Explain the functional structure within the larger context of organizational structures in general

  • Divisional Structure

    • Organizations can be structured in various ways, with each structure determining the manner in which the organization operates and performs.
    • Product and geographic divisional structures may be characterized as follows:
    • A common legal structure known as the multidivisional form (or "M-form") also uses the divisional structure.
    • As with all organizational structure types, the divisional structure offers distinct advantages and disadvantages.
    • Describe the basic premise behind divisional structures within the general framework of organizational structure

  • Network Structure

    • The network structure is a newer type of organizational structure often viewed as less hierarchical (i.e., more flat), more decentralized, and more flexible than other structures.
    • The concept underlying the network structure is the social network—a social structure of interactions.
    • From a management perspective, the network structure is unique among other organizational structures that focus on the internal dynamics within the firm.
    • Like other organizational structures, the network structure has its advantages and its disadvantages.
    • Proponents argue that the network structure is more agile compared to other structures (such as functional areas, divisions, or even some teams).

  • Team-Based Structure

    • The team structure is a newer, less hierarchical organizational structure in which individuals are grouped into teams.
    • Organizations can be structured in various ways, and the structure of an organization determines how it operates and performs.
    • The team structure in large organizations is considered a newer type of organization that is less hierarchical, less structured, and more fluid than traditional structures (such as functional or divisional).
    • One aspect of team-based structures that will likely persist indefinitely is the integration of team cultures within an broader structure (e.g., a functional structure with teams interspersed).
    • Classify team-based structures within the larger context of the most common organizational structures

  • Financial Structures

  • Considering Company Size

    • The size and operational scale of a company is important to consider when identifying the ideal organization structure.
    • This structure is a combination of bureaucratic and pre-bureaucratic, where individual contribution and control are coupled with authority and structure.
    • In this structure, consensus is the driving force behind decision making and authority.
    • A matrix structure is used by the largest companies with the highest level of complexity.
    • Structure becomes more difficult to change as companies evolve; for this reason, understanding which specific structure will function best within a given company environment is an important early step for the management team.

  • Modular Structure

    • In the modular structure, an organization focuses on developing specialized and relatively autonomous strategic business units.
    • Organizations can be structured in various ways that determine how the organization operates and performs.
    • One advantage of the modular structure is that loosely coupled structures can enable organizations to be more flexible and restructure more easily.
    • Managers must carefully consider whether or not a modular structure would be useful, either entirely or partially, for a given organization.
    • Define the nature and value of a modular structure in an organizational framework

  • Characteristics of Organizational Structures

    • Important characteristics of an organization's structure include span of control, departmentalization, centralization, and decentralization.
    • Organizational structures provide basic frameworks to help operations proceed smoothly and functionally.
    • Types of organizational structures include functional, divisional, matrix, team, network, and horizontal structures.
    • This diagram compares visual representations of a centralized vs. decentralized organizational structure.
    • Outline the departmentalization options available to corporations from an organizational structure perspective and differentiate between centralized and decentralized decision-making, and the resulting structural implications