Have you heard of “org charts” but never really given it a second thought? Do you run a business and are looking for ways to help make it more streamlined, efficient, and smooth? Did you know that org charts could be the answer that you’re after? Org charts, or organizational charts, are something that doesn’t always get the credit they deserve and it’s time for that to change.
Here we’ll take a deep dive into all things organizational, specifically what they are, how to make them, and how to use them. There’s a good chance after reading all the benefits, you’ll be in a rush to create a comprehensive org chart.
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Org Charts are a Simple and Easy Concept
The first thing to note is just how easy org charts are to create and use, as this org chart creator show. In basic terms, an organizational chart is meant to act as a visual directory of the company’s structure. Whether your company uses a traditional hierarchy structure or something more linear or horizontal wherein hierarchy doesn’t exist, the org chart can work.
The basics that are included in one of these charts are the person’s name, job title, contact information, department, and even roles and responsibilities if you choose. As you plug in the information, a chain of command starts to become apparent, which also makes it easier to figure out processes and steps when it comes to various projects and tasks.
Lines are Used to Show Communication
Once you have all the important details plugged in, lines are then used to connect departments and people that require professional relationships and communications. Not every person or department will need to converse with one another, and this is reflected in the chart.
As the Company Changes – So Too Can the Org Chart
Another great feature of organizational charts is that they don’t have to be a stagnant thing, they are fluid. This means as you hire more staff, create new departments, change roles and responsibilities, and even communication lines within the company, everything can be reflected on the org chart. Ideally, this is a chart that every department head and even employee should have access to so that everyone is on the same page.
You May Be Able to Add Supporting Material
Depending on the org chart creator tool you use, you may also be able to add supporting material to the chart. This makes it more useful since you can add such things as tables, text documents, images, presentations, and more. Just think how useful that is when everyone has access to the same material in real-time.
Identify Areas of Concern
An org chart can also do a great job of identifying areas of concern. Perhaps you have teams or departments that aren’t balanced – too little or too many staff, don’t report to the ideal department or manager, or are a missing link in a process. When things are laid out in chart form it can be much easier to spot these issues. Without the chart, they may have gone unnoticed.
Org Charts Can Be Shared with Clients
Don’t only think of an org chart as something your company will use, there is also the ability to share it with clients and customers should you deem it helpful. Maybe you’re trying to land a new client or account so you’re trying to sell your business and its branding.
Sharing the org chart with them gives a clear look at how the company is structured and operates. This helps to add authority and make the business look very well organized. It also acts as a contact sheet for them as they know who to go to with a concern or question since they see each person’s name and job title on the chart.
This Fluid Chart Acts as the Anchor for Your Business
An org chart is so important and useful that it can act as the anchor for your business. It is the blueprint that lays everything out, yet it’s customizable and can evolve as the company changes. Embracing org charts can revolutionize how communication occurs in the company and vastly improve professional relationships and workflow.
