ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the many factors and variables that determine organizational structure are considered. The importance of these decisions for culture, HR management and interpersonal behaviours is stressed, along with specific implications for service in the hospitality industry. Different types of organization structure are explored, examining the impact different formats have for such managerial characteristics as decision-making and lines of authority. Centralization, decentralization and spans of control are covered, along with the need to review structures as organizations grow and the external environment changes. The organization of the HR function itself is also included, illustrated by a case study extract from the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
