Which term describes removing layers of management from the hierarchy?

Which term describes removing layers of management from the hierarchy?

• A. Downsizing
• B. Delayering
• C. Flattening
• D. Restructuring

Answer: (B)

Delayering is removing layers of management from the hierarchy. The aim is to create a flatter structure by cutting out middle managers so there are fewer steps between the top and front-line staff. This can speed up decision-making, improve communication, and often reduce costs associated with a tall chain of command. It differs from downsizing, which focuses on reducing the overall number of employees, and from restructuring, which is a broader reorganisation of how the business is arranged. Flattening describes the end result of having fewer layers, but the specific term that means removing those layers is delayering.

Delayering is removing layers of management from the hierarchy. The aim is to create a flatter structure by cutting out middle managers so there are fewer steps between the top and front-line staff. This can speed up decision-making, improve communication, and often reduce costs associated with a tall chain of command.

It differs from downsizing, which focuses on reducing the overall number of employees, and from restructuring, which is a broader reorganisation of how the business is arranged. Flattening describes the end result of having fewer layers, but the specific term that means removing those layers is delayering.