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Compare the features of NHS Scotland's tall/hierarchical structure, as shown in Exhibit 1, to a flat structure - Scottish Highers Business Management - Question d - 2019
Question d
Compare the features of NHS Scotland's tall/hierarchical structure, as shown in Exhibit 1, to a flat structure. Justify the decision to group NHS Scotland into regi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Compare the features of NHS Scotland's tall/hierarchical structure, as shown in Exhibit 1, to a flat structure - Scottish Highers Business Management - Question d - 2019
Step 1
Compare the features of NHS Scotland's tall/hierarchical structure, as shown in Exhibit 1, to a flat structure.
Answer
NHS Scotland's tall/hierarchical structure is characterized by several key features:
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Many layers of management: This structure consists of multiple levels, leading to a more complex organizational hierarchy.
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Long chain of command: Decisions typically flow from the top down, requiring longer communication paths.
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More promotion opportunities: With more layers, there are potentially more roles available for employees to aspire to.
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Narrow span of control: Managers tend to supervise a limited number of subordinates, allowing for closer supervision.
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Slower response to changes: The layered approach can lead to delays in decision-making and responsiveness to changes.
In contrast, a flat structure has the following characteristics:
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Fewer layers of management: This results in a more streamlined organization.
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Shorter chain of command: Communication flows more freely with fewer levels.
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Fewer promotion opportunities: With less hierarchy, there are fewer positions for advancement.
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Wider span of control: Managers supervise more employees, promoting greater autonomy and less micromanagement.
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Faster communication: The reduced hierarchy leads to quicker dissemination of information and responses.
Step 2
Justify the decision to group NHS Scotland into regional NHS Boards, shown in Exhibit 2.
Answer
Grouping NHS Scotland into regional NHS Boards is justifiable for several reasons:
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Better cater for the patients' needs: Regional boards allow for more localized healthcare services tailored to specific community needs, improving patient outcomes.
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More efficient to essential changes in the area: This structure enables regional boards to quickly adapt to necessary changes based on local circumstances.
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Facilitate collaboration and sharing of resources: Regional NHS Boards can collaborate more effectively to share best practices and optimize resources.
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Help for government managers to identify issues with services: Having a regional focus allows management to better monitor and assess service effectiveness.
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Regional boards are accountable: This structure enhances accountability, ensuring that healthcare services meet community standards and expectations.
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Regional Boards are empowered to make quicker decisions: The ability to make localized decisions increases responsiveness and effectiveness in managing healthcare delivery.