Definition

Noun: A diagram that visually represents the formal structure of an organization. It shows the relationships, roles, and relative ranks of its parts and positions/jobs. It typically illustrates the lines of authority, responsibility, and communication between different departments and individuals within a large entity.

Usage

An organization chart is used to provide a clear, graphical overview of a company's or institution's hierarchy. It is a tool for management and employees to understand reporting relationships and the formal chain of command.

Examples

• The new employee studied the organization chart to understand who her manager reports to.
• During the merger, the company's organization chart was completely redesigned.
• The organization chart clearly shows that the marketing and sales departments are separate divisions.

Advanced Usage

• "To map out an organization chart": To create or design the diagram.
  • The HR director was tasked with mapping out the new organization chart after the restructuring.
• "Flat vs. tall organization chart": Describes the structure's number of hierarchical levels. A "flat" chart has few levels, while a "tall" chart has many.
  • Startups often have a very flat organization chart, promoting faster communication.

Variants and Related Words

• Organigram (Noun): A less common synonym for organization chart.
• Org chart (Noun): A common abbreviated form used in business contexts.
  • Can you send me the latest org chart?
• Hierarchy (Noun): The system of organizing people into different ranks of authority, which the chart depicts.
• Reporting structure (Noun): The specific lines of authority shown on the chart.

Synonyms

• Organigram
• Hierarchy chart
• Corporate structure chart
• Company flowchart

Related Phrases

• Line of command: The order of authority within an organization, as shown on the chart.
  • You must follow the proper line of command as indicated on the organization chart.
• Span of control: The number of subordinates a manager directly supervises, often visible on a chart.
  • The organization chart reveals a wide span of control for the department head.

Noun

1. a chart showing the lines of responsibility between departments of a large organization