Business – 7.1 Organisational structure – Line and staff | e-Consult
7.1 Organisational structure – Line and staff (1 questions)
Login to see all questions.
Click on a question to view the answer
Answer: A line function is directly involved in achieving the core objectives of the organisation, typically having authority to make decisions that affect the primary output. Examples include:
- Production manager in a manufacturing firm.
- Sales manager in a retail company.
A staff function provides specialist advice, support, and services to line managers but does not have direct authority over the primary activities. Examples include:
- Human Resources (HR) department.
- Finance and accounting department.
The key distinction is that line managers have decision‑making authority over the core activities that generate revenue, whereas staff specialists have advisory authority and support line managers without direct control over the main production or sales processes.