Business management · 2000 · Paper 1 · SL · Markscheme

MARKSCHEME November 2000 BUSINESS AND ORGANISATION Standard Level Paper 1 N00/370/S(1)M INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE BACCALAURÉAT INTERNATIONAL BACHILLERATO INTERNACIONAL 13 pages [8 marks] 1. Using the information in the text and from Figures I and II, compare the organisation structures of Hunter & Sons and Safebuy Supermarket, and discuss how the different structures and management cultures will affect the operation and management of the two stores. Comparison of Structures: Hunter & Sons: A relatively tall, traditional line structure with narrow spans of control. There are seven levels of hierarchy and channels of command are vertical through functions and departments. Delegation will be functional. The organisation is likely to be relatively inflexible. Promotion opportunities may be frequent and appear to be based on seniority or experience. This may frustrate newer and/or younger members of staff. Managers are likely to possess considerable control over their subordinates and stress levels may be moderate given the narrow spans of control and the potentially experienced nature of the workforce. Only the lowest level staff are likely to be temporary or part-time. The department heads have considerable power. Additional posts of responsibility are common. Communications is likely to be slow both up and down the organisation and there are many gatekeepers of information. Delegation may be limited. Safebuy Supermarkets : A flat, team-based structure with wide spans of control. There are three levels of hierarchy and channels of command are vertical through teams. Delegation will be from team leader to the relevant function. The organisation is likely to be relatively flexible. Promotion opportunities may be limited. Managers may be under considerable stress given both the targets they operate to, the wide spans of control and the potentially unskilled and young nature of the workforce. Many of the lower level staff will be temporary or part-time. The