What Is Line Organizational Structure ?
Line organization is the oldest and simplest structure which is mostly used by small organizations. It is also called vertical organizational structure because authority flows from top (superiors) to bottom (subordinates). In this type of organization authority remains with superiors (departmental heads, supervisors etc.) . They have the right to manage and control subordinates in the workplace.
Benefits Or Advantages Of Line Organizational Structure
The main advantages of line organization can be pointed out as follows:
1. Simple To Operate
Line organization is the oldest , simplest and widely used structure. It is very easy to establish and operate because it requires less resources. Managers and employees can understand their duties, authority and responsibility clearly.
2. Most Economical Structure
It is more economical than other form of organizations because it consumes less resources . It can be run smoothly with less expenses and less employees because it does not practice specialization.
Another notable advantage of line organizational structure is that authority and responsibility of each member in the workplace is properly defined . Jobs are assigned or fixed to each and every employees which helps to make them accountable for their performance.
4. Promotes Quick Decision
Manager or superior is a sole decision maker. He/she can make decision independently without consulting others. So, prompt decision making is possible in line organizational structure.
5. Better Supervision And Control
Because of defined responsibility, direct communication and unity of command, it is easy for the managers to supervise and control subordinates. So, good discipline can be maintained in the organization.
6. Opportunity For Development
A superior has the power to exercise authority in this form of structure. It helps them to develop managerial skills such as directing, supervising, motivating, controlling etc. So, line organization provides opportunity for executive development.
Drawbacks Or Disadvantages Of Line Organization
The main disadvantages of line organizational structure can be pointed out as follows:
1. Overload On Executives
One of the main drawbacks of line organization is that superiors are suffer from the burden of overloaded work. Because of single authority, they have to deal with various activities which increases their workload which may lead to decreases in their efficiency.
Also Read:
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Functional organization
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Line And Staff Organization
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Matrix Organization
2. Possibility Of Dictatorship
It follows autocratic leadership style in the organization because authority is vested with one superior. Autocracy may lead to dictatorship in the workplace. Possibility of favoritism and nepotism is also very high in this type of organization.
3. It Discourages Specialization
Another demerit of this organization structure is that it lacks specialization. A single officer has to make various decisions, has to control different subordinates and has to supervise several activities in the organization. No one will be an expert in every fields. Therefore, superiors may not perform their duties efficiently.
4. Unstable Type Of Structure
Departmental head or superior is the key person to manage the whole organization. All the activities are conducted under his/her direction and supervision. If superior quits the job or dies, it is very difficult to run the organization.
5. Not Suitable For Big Organizations
Line organization is useful only for small organizations which have less resources, limited number of operations and less number of subordinates. This structure is not applicable for large organizations with more resources, various activities and employees.
Pros:
- It is simple and requires less cost to operate
- Duties and responsibility are clearly defined for each employee
- Prompt decision is possible because of single authority
- Supervision and controlling is easy because of direct link between supervisor and employees and limited number of staffs.
- It is suitable for small organizations
- Better discipline can be maintained
Cons:
- It may promote favoritism, nepotism and dictatorship in the organization
- It increases the burden of work to the superiors
- Performance may me reduced because of the lack of specialization
- Rigidity and inflexibility is one of the major drawbacks of this form of organization
- It is unsuitable for big organizations
