Organisation structure: Line organisation is most suitable for which types of industries?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of these

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Organisation design affects authority, communication, and control. Line organisation features a clear, direct chain of command from top to bottom, best for stable, routine operations with standardized processes.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Industries listed perform repetitive, process-oriented operations.
  • Decision-making can be centralized with clear authority lines.
  • Low product variety and stable processes.


Concept / Approach:
Where tasks are routine and interdependencies are sequential, line structures can deliver clarity, speed of decisions, and accountability. Industries like sugar, oil refining, and textiles often exhibit continuous or repetitive processes suited to line or line-and-staff forms; the core line chain remains dominant for operations control.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify industry characteristics: repetitive, standardized, and process-driven.Map these to the strengths of line organisation: simplicity and unity of command.Conclude that all listed industries can adopt line-dominant structures effectively.Choose “All of these”.


Verification / Alternative check:
Organisational case studies show line or line-and-staff prevalence in continuous processing plants due to clear process flow and safety-critical command chains.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Choosing only one industry ignores the general applicability of line structures across similar process industries.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing pure line with line-and-staff; many large plants add staff functions, but the line authority remains primary.



Final Answer:
All of these

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