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Echelon

Echelon is a term used to describe a step, level, or rank within a hierarchical structure, and it also refers to various arrangements and forms in different fields. The word derives from the French eschelle, meaning ladder or mounting.

In military and nautical usage, an echelon describes a formation in which units are positioned diagonally behind

In mathematics, echelon form refers to a standardized arrangement of a matrix. A row echelon form has

In organizational theory, echelon denotes levels of authority within a hierarchy. The term is often used in

Echelon is also associated with the global signals intelligence program ECHELON, a network intended to collect

The term is widely used in general language to describe any stepped or layered arrangement, level, or

and
to
the
side
of
the
preceding
unit.
This
staggered
arrangement
allows
for
mutual
support,
fire
control,
and
flexibility
in
maneuvering.
The
phrase
“in
echelon”
can
also
denote
a
line
of
ships,
aircraft,
or
troops
deployed
in
such
a
diagonal
sequence.
all
nonzero
rows
above
any
rows
consisting
entirely
of
zeros,
and
the
leading
coefficient
(the
first
nonzero
number
from
the
left,
called
a
pivot)
of
a
lower
row
is
to
the
right
of
the
pivot
above
it.
Reduced
row
echelon
form
further
requires
that
each
pivot
is
1
and
that
every
pivot
column
has
zeros
in
all
other
positions.
These
forms
simplify
solving
systems
of
linear
equations
and
understanding
matrix
rank.
discussions
of
upper
echelons
theory,
which
posits
that
the
characteristics
of
top
executives
influence
organizational
outcomes
and
strategic
decisions.
and
analyze
communications
data.
Operated
by
member
states
of
the
Five
Eyes
alliance,
it
has
been
the
subject
of
public
scrutiny
and
debate
regarding
privacy
and
surveillance
practices.
position.