hierarchical

(noun)

Ranked in some order, often order of importance or power. 

Related Terms

  • board of directors
  • synergistic

(adjective)

Classified or arranged according to various criteria into successive ranks or grades.

Related Terms

  • board of directors
  • synergistic

Examples of hierarchical in the following topics:

  • The Organizational Chart

    • The different types of organization charts include hierarchical, matrix, and flat (also known as horizontal).
    • A hierarchical organization is an organizational structure with several reporting layers.
  • Team-Based Structure

    • The team structure is a newer, less hierarchical organizational structure in which individuals are grouped into teams.
    • The team structure in large organizations is considered a newer type of organization that is less hierarchical, less structured, and more fluid than traditional structures (such as functional or divisional).
    • Although teams are described as less hierarchical, they typically still include a management structure.
  • Flattening Hierarchies

    • Certain financial responsibilities may also require a traditional hierarchical structure.
    • Some theorize that flat organizations become more traditionally hierarchical when they gear themselves more toward productivity.
    • As a result, the structure can be more time-consuming to build than a traditional hierarchical model.
  • Frontline Management

    • One perspective that can be taken on management is an hierarchical view.
    • This is a particularly good example of hierarchical thinking, as militarizes often function with a high degree of hierarchical authority.
  • Characteristics of Organizational Structures

    • In the execution of a task, hierarchical organizations usually have different levels of task processes.
    • Because there are fewer hierarchical layers to navigate, this kind of structure helps to enable adaptability, quick reactions to lower level issues, and more empowered employees.
  • Types of Organizations

    • Some businesses with shareholders and layers of directors and managers may choose a more formal, hierarchical approach to communicate internally.
    • Members of hierarchical organizational structures communicate with their immediate superior and their immediate subordinates.
    • This structure works in contrast to traditional top-down, bottom-up, or hierarchical communication and involves the spreading of messages from individuals across the base of a pyramid.
    • However, the hierarchical mode of communicating tends to be the dominant choice in many corporations.
  • Fulfilling the Organizing Function

    • Formal reporting relationships include lines of authority, decision responsibility, number of hierarchical levels, and span of managers' control.
    • Tall structure: A management structure characterized by an overall narrow span of management, a relatively large number of hierarchical levels, tight control, and reduced communication overhead.
    • Flat structure: A management structure characterized by a wide span of control and relatively few hierarchical levels, loose control, and ease of delegation.
  • Self-Managing Teams

    • The lack of hierarchical authority means that personal relationships can overwhelm good judgment.
  • Employee Promotions

    • In very hierarchical organizations, like the military, the change in rank alone is significant and brings with it new responsibilities.
  • Perspectives on Motivation

    • While this framework makes a certain amount of logical sense, critics have noted that there have been minimal data that suggest employees strive to satisfy needs in the workplace in accordance with this hierarchical framework.
    • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs postulates that need must be fulfilled in a hierarchical order, from basic needs such as food and water to more intangible needs such as self-esteem and a sense of belonging.
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