Organigramm

An organigramm, organigram, or organizational chart is a diagram that represents the internal structure of an organization. It shows the relationships and relative ranking of its parts, such as departments, teams, roles, and the people who fill them. The purpose is to communicate reporting lines, authority, responsibilities, and communication pathways, supporting governance, staffing, and onboarding.

An organigram typically features boxes or nodes connected by lines. Each box usually contains a job title and the name of the person occupying it, and sometimes department or function. Lines indicate reporting relationships; solid lines often denote formal authority, while dashed lines may show advisory relationships, matrix reporting, or collaborations. Organigrams can be hierarchical, showing a clear top-down chain of command; matrix structures overlay functional and project lines; and flat or horizontal structures minimize levels of management.

Creation and use: Organigrams are commonly produced during organizational design or restructuring. They can be produced with diagramming software and updated as roles change. They are used in human resources onboarding, internal communication, governance, compliance, and in public administration. The term originates from German Organigramm, and in English you may also see organogram or organizational chart.

Limitations and best practices: Organigrams provide a snapshot that may quickly become outdated and may oversimplify complex relationships or ignore informal networks. They can imply rigidity in dynamic environments. Best practice is to treat organigrams as living documents, link them to job descriptions and process maps, and review them regularly.