STRUCTURES WITHIN ORGANIZATION

 Formal Structure
 Informal Structure
Formal Structure
• Formal organizational structure refers to a
structured, hierarchical system of roles and
responsibilities, which are formally established and
regulated within an organization. In a formal
organization, there are clear lines of authority and
communication, with each individual having a
specific role and set of responsibilities. This structure
is typically used in large organizations, such as
corporations or government agencies, where there
are many employees and complex operations.
Advantages of Formal Structure
• Clarity:
Formal organizational structure provides a clear understanding of the
roles and responsibilities of each individual within the organization. This
helps to avoid confusion and ensures that everyone knows what is
expected of them.
• Efficiency:
Formal organizational structure allows for efficient communication and
decision-making, as each individual knows who they report to and who
they can turn to for guidance.
• Stability:
Formal organizational structure provides stability to an organization, as
the roles and responsibilities of each individual are clearly defined and
regulated.
Disadvantages of Formal Structure
• Rigidity:
Formal organizational structure can be rigid and inflexible,
making it difficult to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Bureaucracy:
Formal organizational structure can also lead to bureaucracy,
with too many levels of management and excessive
paperwork, which can slow down decision-making and hamper
innovation.
Informal Structure
• Informal organizational structure refers to the
unwritten, unofficial relationships and networks
within an organization. In an informal organization,
there may be no clear lines of authority or
communication, and individuals may have multiple
roles and responsibilities. Informal organizational
structure is typically found in small organizations or
within departments or teams within larger
organizations.
Advantages
• Flexibility:
Informal organizational structure allows for flexibility and
adaptability, as individuals can quickly respond to changing
circumstances without being constrained by formal rules and
procedures.
• Creativity:
 Informal organizational structure can also foster creativity
and innovation, as individuals are encouraged to think
outside the box and come up with new ideas.
• Camaraderie:
Informal organizational structure can create a sense of
camaraderie and teamwork among individuals, as they work
together to achieve common goals.
Disadvantages
• Lack of clarity:
Informal organizational structure can be unclear and
confusing, as there may be no clear lines of authority or
communication.
• Inefficiency:
Informal organizational structure can also lead to
inefficiency, as individuals may not know who to turn to
for guidance or support, leading to duplicated efforts or
wasted resources.
• Instability:
Informal organizational structure can also be unstable, as
relationships and networks can change quickly, leading to
uncertainty and unpredictability.
References:

• https://iproject.com.ng/political-science/civil-society-organization-and-the-electoral-process-in-ni
geria/index.html

• https://iproject.com.ng/political-science/the-effect-of-endsars-protest-on-the-growth-and-econo
my-of-nigeria/index.html

• https://iproject.com.ng/political-science/political-parties-and-politics-of-second-term/index.html
Good order is the foundation of all
things.
-Edmund Burke