5. Explain traditional and contemporary structure. How does tall structure differ from flat structure?

Traditional and contemporary structures refer to the organizational structures of a company.

1. Traditional Structure: This is the most common type of organizational structure where tasks are divided, grouped, and coordinated following a well-defined chain of command. It is typically hierarchical in nature, with employees reporting to a single manager. The traditional structure is further divided into functional, divisional, and matrix structures.

2. Contemporary Structure: This is a more modern approach to organizational structure. It is designed to be more flexible and responsive to changes. It includes flat, team, network, and modular structures.

The difference between a tall structure and a flat structure lies in the number of levels of management.

1. Tall Structure: In a tall structure, there are several layers of management between frontline employees and the top level. This means that there is a long chain of command, and the decision-making process can be slower due to the levels of approval required. However, it allows for clear roles and responsibilities, and close supervision of employees.

2. Flat Structure: In a flat structure, there are fewer layers of management, which means a shorter chain of command. This can lead to quicker decision-making and increased flexibility. Employees often have more responsibility and may be involved in decision-making processes. However, it can also lead to role ambiguity and potential for conflict as more employees report directly to the top level.