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Principles of Disaster Management Lesson 12: Structuring Organizations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 June 2012

Abstract

This lesson discusses various structures for organizations that have functional roles in disaster responses, relief, and/or management activities. It distinguishes between pyramidal and matrix structures, and notes the advantages and disadvantages of each in relation to disasters. Span of control issues are dissected including the impact of the “P” factor on the performance of disaster managers and workers including its relationship to the coordination and control function. The development of a Table of Organization and how it relates to departmentalization within an organization also is provided.

Type
Fred C. Cuny Memorial Continuing Education Series
Copyright
Copyright © World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine 2001

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References

Notes

1. Walker, AH, Lorsch, JW: Organizational Choice: Product versus Function Studies in Organization Design. Lorsch, JW, Lawrence, PR (eds) Homewood Ill.: Richard D. Irwin and the Dorsey Press, 1970, p. 39.Google Scholar

2. Youker R: Organizational alternatives for project managers. Management Review 1977;47–52. Also see Kolodny HF: Evolution to a matrix organization. Academy of Management Review 1979; 543–554.

3. Steiglitz, H: Organizational Planning. New York: National Industrial Conference Board, 1966. p 15.Google Scholar

4. Worthy JC: Organizational structure and employee morale. American Sociological Review. 1950 (April); 169–179.