A multi-line system is another way of structuring a company with several lines. In this case, multiple lines can refer to multiple subordination and communication channels. This is where it gets exciting: The principle of the multi-line system states that each employee can be subordinate to several superiors.
In this way, superiors can issue instructions directly without having to involve intermediate bodies. For the concrete implementation, this means that some departments can overlap for the fulfilment of tasks. It thus realises a simple hierarchical basic form of multiple subordination.
In the single-line system, on the other hand, every employee is subordinate to a direct superior. In this sense, the employee only receives instructions and work assignments from a superior. This system is therefore also called the "principle of unity of assignment".