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Assignment 8- Organizational Structure

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7 views

Assignment 8- Organizational Structure

Uploaded by

ahmedelnemr8732
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Name: AHMED ALI IBRAHIM ELNEMR

Registration # 2311508
Assignment # 7
Assignment Organizational Structure
Title:

Answer:
1. Organizational Structures
Example 1: Apple Inc. (Functional Organizational Structure)
Apple follows a functional organizational structure, where the organization is
divided into departments based on specialized functions. Below is a
simplified chart representation:
 CEO
 Engineering
 Design
 Marketing
 Operations
 Retail
 Software Development

Example 2: Amazon Inc. (Matrix Organizational Structure)


Amazon employs a matrix organizational structure, which combines
functional and product-based structures. It facilitates efficiency and
innovation in their diverse operations. Below is a simplified chart
representation:
 CEO
 Functional Departments (e.g., HR, Finance, IT)
 Business Units (e.g., AWS, Prime, Retail)

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 Geographic Divisions (e.g., North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific)

2. Applying 9 Organizational Characteristics


Apple’s Functional Structure

Characteristics Apple’s Structure

High specialization; each department focuses on a


Work Specialization specific area (e.g., engineering, marketing).

Organized by functions such as design, software, and


Departmentalization retail.

Chain of Command Clear authority from the CEO to department heads.

Narrow at the top levels (CEO to VPs); wider at


Span of Control middle/lower levels.

Centralization vs. Centralized decision-making; the CEO has significant


Decentralization control over strategies and innovations.

High level of formalization in processes and


Formalization communication.

Coordination Coordination across functions through top-down


Mechanisms communication and product integration teams.

Flexibility and Limited flexibility; relies heavily on leadership for


Adaptability strategic direction and innovation.

Focuses on innovation, quality, and attention to


Culture detail.

Amazon’s Matrix Structure

Characteristics Amazon’s Structure

Moderate specialization; employees often work


Work Specialization across functional and project-based teams.

Departmentalization Organized by function, product, and geographic

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Characteristics Amazon’s Structure

location.

Dual chain of command; employees report to both


Chain of Command functional and project managers.

Wide at functional levels but more focused within


Span of Control specific business units or regions.

Centralization vs. Decentralized decision-making within business units;


Decentralization top management handles strategic objectives.

Moderate formalization; flexible rules to adapt to


Formalization diverse operations and markets.

Coordination Collaboration between functions and projects through


Mechanisms integrated communication systems.

Flexibility and Highly adaptable to market changes due to


Adaptability decentralized authority and collaborative processes.

Emphasis on customer obsession, speed, and


Culture continuous innovation.

3. Personal Perspectives
1. Apple’s Functional Structure:
 Strengths: Apple’s structure supports product quality, innovation,
and efficiency in specialized functions.
 Weaknesses: The centralized decision-making can limit flexibility
and slow responses to market changes.
2. Amazon’s Matrix Structure:
 Strengths: Amazon’s matrix structure allows it to manage its
diverse product and service offerings while remaining adaptable
to customer needs.
 Weaknesses: The dual chain of command can lead to confusion
and conflicts between functional and project managers.

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3. Comparison:
 Apple’s structure is highly suited for innovation-driven industries
where product quality is paramount.
 Amazon’s structure is ideal for dynamic environments requiring
collaboration across functions and rapid responses to market
changes.

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