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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · The formal and informal business organisation

In a long scalar chain, an instruction from the chief executive passes through six management levels before reaching operational staff. Which problem is most likely to result?

The most likely problem is that messages are delayed or distorted as they pass through the many levels of the scalar chain. Long chains usually come with narrow spans and tighter control, so excessive span and greater autonomy are not typical results.

  1. AMessages may be delayed or distorted as they pass through the levelsCorrect
  2. BManagers will have an excessively wide span of control
  3. CStaff will have greater autonomy and discretion in their work

Explanation

A long scalar chain means many layers, so communication is slower and can be filtered or distorted. Long chains typically go with narrow spans, not wide ones. Tall hierarchies tend to reduce autonomy because of tighter control.

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