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Due Date: May 2025
QUESTION 2.1
(i)
An “organic” project organisation refers to a flexible, adaptive, and responsive structure
designed to operate effectively in dynamic environments characterized by complexity,
uncertainty, and change. Unlike traditional hierarchical structures that rely on rigid lines of
authority and vertical communication, organic project organisations emphasize decentralised
control, collaboration, and horizontal integration of sub-units.
To be considered organic, a project organisation must possess two key properties. First, it
must integrate sub-units through horizontal relationships. This involves creating
mechanisms—both formal and informal—for communication and decision-making across
departments and teams, rather than strictly following top-down channels. Second, the
structure must be differentiated to suit the unique demands of the project and its
environment. This means tailoring roles, processes, and teams to fit the specific technical,
social, and market challenges of the project.
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QUESTION 2.1
(i)
An “organic” project organisation refers to a flexible, adaptive, and responsive
structure designed to operate effectively in dynamic environments characterized by
complexity, uncertainty, and change. Unlike traditional hierarchical structures that
rely on rigid lines of authority and vertical communication, organic project
organisations emphasize decentralised control, collaboration, and horizontal
integration of sub-units.
To be considered organic, a project organisation must possess two key properties.
First, it must integrate sub-units through horizontal relationships. This involves
creating mechanisms—both formal and informal—for communication and decision-
making across departments and teams, rather than strictly following top-down
channels. Second, the structure must be differentiated to suit the unique demands of
the project and its environment. This means tailoring roles, processes, and teams to
fit the specific technical, social, and market challenges of the project.
Organic structures are particularly suited for projects because each project is unique,
with different goals, stakeholders, technologies, and risks. Change is inevitable, and
new challenges often arise that require rapid adjustments in planning, resourcing, or
execution. An organic structure allows project teams to respond quickly to new
information and feedback, adapt to shifting goals or external constraints, and
innovate without being limited by bureaucracy.
Moreover, such structures foster collaboration, empower cross-functional teams, and
enable the sharing of resources and knowledge. This flexibility and responsiveness
are vital in fields like software development, pharmaceuticals, and construction,
where uncertainties are high and coordination among various experts is essential.
Therefore, organic project organisations are designed not only for efficient task
completion but also for learning, adaptation, and resilience in an ever-changing
environment.