'flattened' management structure

[Aqualim]

Does anyone know what the phrase "<insert company name here> have 'flattened' their management structure"?

I'm thinking it has to do with simplifying the structure?

[m@tty]

It is to do with reducing the number of levels within the structure which, in turn, will increase the 'span of control' of managers -- that is, the number of direct subordinates. It should lead to better, and quicker, communication, as a message has less hands to pass through. Though, at the same time, communication would be hindered by the immense amount each manager has to deal with, as they have a wide span of control.

Having been 6 months since last years exam, I have forgotten the actual definition. Though you should check Shinny's notes, they'll have something on it.

[Aqualim]

Cheers, I did a search for flattened in Shinny's Notes and couldn't find anything. But I'm assuming your right, just now have to come up with two advantages of this

[m@tty]

Ah, I don't have any of my old books anymore...
Hope I'm right, for your sake, but don't be surprised if I'm a bit off.

[Aqualim]

thats alright, I'm sure I'll be atleast closer than everyone else. If they don't have notes on it, they won't attempt it.. pfft

[shinny]

It's on page 7. 'Flat' means the same as 'decentralised' as I've indicated in my notes, and decentralised is a concept that the State should be well familiar with. Surprised that your textbook didn't mention or hint that the two were synonymous.

[Aqualim]

It's on page 7. 'Flat' means the same as 'decentralised' as I've indicated in my notes, and decentralised is a concept that the State should be well familiar with. Surprised that your textbook didn't mention or hint that the two were synonymous.

Actually according to the index, the textbook doesn't even refer to decentralised structure :\ (barille textbook)

[shinny]

It's on page 7. 'Flat' means the same as 'decentralised' as I've indicated in my notes, and decentralised is a concept that the State should be well familiar with. Surprised that your textbook didn't mention or hint that the two were synonymous.

Actually according to the index, the textbook doesn't even refer to decentralised structure :\ (barille textbook)

Pretty sure it'll be somewhere under the 'management structure' chapter. It's something that's been on many exams so I'd be surprised if the Barille book didn't have it.