Using an org chart builder, you can create several different types of org charts, including ones that are hierarchical, flat, divisional, functional, network-based, matrix-based, or circular.
Hierarchical Org Chart: This is the most common type or org chart, where employees are grouped by department or function. Using this design, there is a clear chain of command from top-level executives down to individual contributors.
Matrix Org Chart: A matrix org chart is used for situations where employees report to multiple managers for different projects or functions. This design is used most often by companies with cross-functional teams or complex project management structures.
Flat (Horizontal) Org Chart: Often used by smaller organizations or startups, a flat org structure has few or sometimes no layers between staff and leadership.
Divisional Org Chart: This design organizes employees into divisions based on product lines, geographies, or markets, making it ideal for large companies with multiple brands, product lines, or regional offices.
Functional Org Chart: A functional org chart groups employees by specific functions, such as marketing, finance, or IT. It's often used in traditional business models (sometimes in conjunction with a hierarchical org chart) to provide a clear structure of specialized departments.
Network Org Chart: A network design is useful for representing the relationships between various teams or external partners in more fluid or decentralized structures. Its commonly used in organizations that rely heavily on collaboration with external entities like contractors or partners.
Circular Org Chart: This design is similar to the hierarchy format, but it displays the information in a circular format, with higher-level positions at the center and lower-level positions radiating outward. It's used to emphasize equal importance across different teams and a more collaborative culture.
Using an org chart builder, you can take your existing workforce data and play around with it in different formats to help you gain deeper insights into your data and where their may be gaps. If you aren't sure which type of org chart design is best, this expert guide to organizational design may have some helpful insights for you.