Topic 1: Elements and Purposes of an Organisational Structure

Elements of an Organisational Structure

In drawing up an organizational chart determine the purpose of the plan considering administrative control, Planning and policy making and relationships with other departments and agencies.

Review departmental functions and determine what activities are needed in order to carry out the functions. Avoid duplication of activities and include all-important ones.

Classify the functions and activities and draw up job specifications and descriptions. Find out where the responsibility for decision making should be placed and allow for delegation.

Review relationship with other departments in the hospital or organization.

Purposes of Organizational Structure

The following are the main purposes of organizational structure are:

  • To have the right people taking right decision at the right time.
  • To establish who is accountable for what and who reports to whom. 
  • To facilitate easy flow of information -channels of communication. 
  • To depict interdepartmental relationships. 
  • To integrate and coordinate activities.