To accomplish its tasks, every organization needs a specific operating system. In most organizations this operating system is called the organizational structure. It can take the form of a traditional hierarchy with superior and subordinate levels, or – at the other end of the spectrum – a form of self-organization with autonomous units. Many organizations operate somewhere between these two poles.

• The operating system – or structure – can be understood as the vehicle that carries the organization toward its purpose and organizes communication across the organization.
• The operating system defines the roles,
  domains
  and responsibilities within the organization.
• It also clarifies several key questions:
  • Which entity in the organization communicates about which topics (domains and roles)
  • Which entities need to communicate with each other (interfaces)
  • Which entity has the authority to respond and make decisions on specific topics (responsibilities)
  • Which entity is responsible for governance issues such as rules, regulations or strategic direction
• If the operating system of an organization is well designed, it will boost the organization in fully achieving its purpose!