Define organizational structure.

Organizational structure is defined as the division and coordination of tasks within an organization. This concept encompasses how roles, responsibilities, and authority are allocated among different levels of management and the overall layout through which the organization operates. Organizational structure establishes the framework that determines how information flows within the company, how decisions are made, and how tasks are coordinated among various teams and individuals.

For example, a well-defined organizational structure will clarify who is responsible for what tasks and how different departments will interact with each other. This helps in achieving efficiency, ensuring that everyone knows their roles and how they fit into the larger goals of the organization. It provides clarity, reduces confusion, and simplifies the process of managing and leading the organization, thus supporting its overall mission and strategic objectives.

In contrast, assessing internal capabilities, outlining management practices, or evaluating organizational effectiveness do not capture the specific essence of how tasks and responsibilities are organized and coordinated within the organization. While these elements are important in their own right, they focus on broader aspects of management and organizational analysis rather than the structural framework established within the organization.