Which organizational structure is characterized by authority and responsibility being held by a group rather than a single manager?

The organizational structure that is characterized by authority and responsibility being held by a group rather than a single manager is known as a committee organization. In this type of structure, decision-making and leadership responsibilities are distributed among the members of a committee, allowing for collaborative input and diverse perspectives. This methodology can foster collective ownership of decisions and enhance the quality of outcomes by drawing on the various skills and expertise of the group members.

Committee organizations are particularly effective in situations that require a high level of cooperation and coordination among different departments or teams. They are often utilized for special projects or initiatives where multiple viewpoints are necessary to reach a well-rounded decision. The collective approach can also help in mitigating risks associated with having a single point of authority, as decisions are made collaboratively.

This structure differs from other types, such as line organizations, where authority is clearly defined and centralized with one manager, or matrix organizations, which introduce dual authority lines; neither of those promote the shared responsibility that is central to a committee organization. Line-and-staff organizations, while incorporating both line authority (from direct managers) and staff authority (for specialized support), still do not embody the essence of shared authority found in committee structures.