Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What term is used to describe organizations with many layers of management?

1. Multi-layered

2. Narrow

3. Tall

4. Wide

The correct answer is: Tall

The term that refers to organizations with many layers of management is "tall." In a tall organizational structure, there is a higher number of levels in the hierarchy, which creates a longer chain of command. Each layer of management typically has a specific functional responsibility, leading to increased oversight and control over operations. In a tall organization, communication may flow through several levels, and decisions typically are made at higher levels before being disseminated downwards. This can lead to both benefits, such as well-defined roles and responsibilities, as well as challenges, such as slower decision-making processes. In contrast, other terms such as "multi-layered," "narrow," and "wide" do not accurately capture the essence of an organization characterized by many management layers. "Multi-layered" is too vague and does not specifically denote the hierarchical aspect, while "narrow" and "wide" generally refer to the breadth of management or span of control within a single level rather than the overall structure of the organization. Thus, "tall" is the precise term that aligns with the concept of multiple layers within an organizational hierarchy.