The "minimum chain of command" principle states that firms should use the __________ levels of hierarchy that are necessary, and often result in organizational structures that are __________.
A) most; taller
B) fewest; taller
C) minimum; ineffective
D) minimum; flatter
E) highest; flat

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "minimum chain of command" principle suggests that firms should use the minimum levels of hierarchy necessary, which would result in a flatter organizational structure. This is because shorter chains of command are associated with faster decision-making and greater flexibility, which are important in modern business environments. Therefore, option D is the correct answer. Option A is incorrect because using the most levels of hierarchy would not align with this principle. Option B is incorrect because it suggests that firms should use the fewest levels of hierarchy, which is not necessarily true. Option C is also incorrect because it implies that using the minimum chain of command would result in an ineffective structure. Finally, option E is incorrect because using the highest levels of hierarchy contradicts the concept of a flatter structure.

The "Minimum Chain of Command" Principle States That Firms Should