Which organizational structure is characterized by a small chain of command and a large span of control?

The flat organizational structure is characterized by a small chain of command and a large span of control. In this type of structure, there are fewer levels of management between staff and executives, which encourages a more collaborative and egalitarian work environment. This setup allows managers to oversee many employees, facilitating quicker decision-making as there are fewer hierarchical levels to navigate for approvals or communication.

In a flat structure, the organization typically promotes open communication and flexibility, resulting in empowered employees who may take on a range of responsibilities rather than being confined to narrow job descriptions. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, innovation, and agility in responding to changes in the business environment.

Other structures, such as tall organizational structures, have many layers of management, resulting in a longer chain of command that can slow down decision-making and reduce flexibility. A product-based structure may focus on different products or services within silos rather than promoting a broad oversight approach. Lastly, a geography-based structure organizes teams by geographical area, which can create distinct management hierarchies, potentially resulting in narrower spans of control.

The characteristics of a flat organizational structure make it an effective choice in many modern businesses where adaptability and rapid response are crucial for success.