A summary of the strengths and weaknesses of different management structures

Structure	Strengths	Weaknesses
Hierarchical	– Clear line of authority – Clear lines of communication – Clarity of roles and responsibilities – Clear opportunities for staff progression	– Centralisation of power – Bureaucracy – Lack of responsiveness – Stifles innovation -Duplication of effort
Flat	– Agility – Collective sense of responsibility and ownership – Adaptability – Lower cost of management	– No single point of command – Can lead to decision paralysis – May make excessive demands upon staff capability and capacity – Lack of clarity over roles – Lack of clarity over responsibilities

What are the key points from the summary that you wish to remember?

Record your thoughts in your learning diary before you move on…