What is a significant disadvantage of a Line Organization in large organizations?

A significant disadvantage of a Line Organization in large organizations is the inability of a single manager to be an expert in every task. In a Line Organization, authority flows in a straight line from top management to lower levels, with clear lines of responsibility. This structure works well for smaller organizations or specific departments where tasks are limited and manageable.

However, in larger organizations, the complexity and range of tasks vastly increase. A single manager may oversee multiple functions or departments, making it challenging for them to possess in-depth knowledge or expertise in every area for which they are responsible. This can lead to gaps in decision-making, where the manager may not fully understand the nuances of specific tasks or operations, potentially leading to less effective oversight and management.

While slower decision-making processes and lack of rapid decision-making could also be seen as issues in larger organizations, the key disadvantage highlighted here is the challenge of having one person with comprehensive expertise across all areas within a Line Organization. The concentration of authority may create clear lines of command, but this can also limit the diversity of input and specialized knowledge in decision-making.