Stephanie is often seen interacting with the medical intern during coffee breaks and after duty hours. What type of organizational structure is this?
A. Formal
B. Informal
C. Staff
D. Line
Correct Answer: B. Informal
This is usually not published and oftentimes concealed. The informal organization is the interlocking social structure that governs how people work together in practice. It is the aggregate of behaviors, interactions, norms, and personal/professional connections through which work gets done and relationships are built among people. It consists of a dynamic set of personal relationships, social networks, communities of common interest, and emotional sources of motivation.
Option A: The formal structure of a group or organization includes a fixed set of rules of procedures and structures, usually set out in writing, with a language of rules that ostensibly leave little discretion for interpretation. In some societies and organizations, such rules may be strictly followed; in others, they may be little more than an empty formalism.
Option C: In the staff organization structure, the employees follow the directives of the managers. The line group as a whole is seen as a function that is essential to the business. Staff positions are those that indirectly support line functions in the organizations. Like line positions, staff positions also consist of managers and employees.
Option D: Line organization structure is the oldest and simplest form of organization. In these organizations, a supervisor exercises direct supervision over a subordinate. Also, authority flows from the top-most person in the organization to the person in the lowest rung.