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The Value and Challenges of Organizational Design

Organizational design determines how a company will achieve its goals. Leaders in Human Resources carefully craft structures and job roles to further long-term strategies. Ksquared Search took a deeper look at the value of organizational redesigns and what challenges leaders may face as they restructure — read on for our team’s collective insights.

The Value of Organizational Design 

An exceptional organizational structure ensures that your processes, systems, and culture align with your strategic objectives. When done properly, an organizational redesign can optimize resource allocation, streamline workflow, and foster innovation. Ultimately, it is a path to achieving your goals in a way that is both effective and fiscally responsible. 

The First Signs of Trouble 

There are typically tell-tale signs that it is time to review your organizational design. The most obvious would be that work is not getting done promptly. Lack of effectiveness could lead to dissatisfaction from stakeholders, as they are not receiving the services they need. But once you go deeper, you see more cracks beginning to form. 

Miscommunication in the chain of command also signals the need for an organizational redesign. Flawed communication systems prevent teams from working together effectively, leading to confusion, frustration, and ultimately disengagement over time. At a basic level, poor communication can keep an organization stagnant. 

Beyond that, looking at the workforce can also tell you how your organization performs. Employee dissatisfaction increases if there are delays in workflow and a lack of meaningful engagement. Beyond that, talent retention decreases as people feel they are not recognized or rewarded for their work. 

The Most Common Challenges

Organizational design is a massive undertaking that does not come without challenges. Research suggests that only 10% of organizations are successful in aligning their strategy with their design. In our experience, there are typically a few high-level challenges present amidst an organizational redesign. 

First and foremost, leaders struggle with the distribution of decision-making authority within an organization. Some organizations choose to centralize by putting decision-making authority at the top level of their organization. Others opt to decentralize by dispersing authority across multiple levels of their organization. 

Each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages — leadership needs to consider each option carefully before altering their organizational design, noting how each would align with their organizational culture.

Another emerging challenge is adapting to incorporate the latest technology. Modern technology, such as AI, can enable, enhance, or consolidate job roles. Organizations must also factor in digital transformation leaders capable of implementing it and guiding others through the transition. 

At the end of the day, all organizations are different. The challenges you experience rely on your organization’s culture, leadership structure, and beyond. One thing remains the same across the board: Organizations need strong leaders to lead them through organizational redesigns successfully. 

Partner with Ksquared Search

Ksquared Search puts you one step closer to reimagining your organization through exceptional leadership. We identify candidates who are ready to assess your existing team, redefine processes, and make necessary changes. Ready to transform your organizational design? Contact Ksquared Search to find your ideal leader today.