Learn what hierarchy is, how the levels work, what it unlocks (and breaks), and how org chart software keeps it governable, without slowing teams down. 

Quick Summary 

In 2026, hierarchy isn’t “old-school.” It is a speed tool when designed with clarity. This guide explains what hierarchical models are, how work moves through authority, and how to define roles across levels without creating bottlenecks. You’ll also learn why a living org chart matters and how SharePoint-based org chart software keeps structure accurate, searchable, and easy to manage. 

So, why does your org feel busy, but decisions still feel slow? 

It’s a weird moment in modern work: teams can ship code, launch campaigns, and close deals from anywhere, yet many still can’t answer a basic question fast: Who owns this decision? 

That’s not a motivation problem. It’s a design problem, specifically, a structure problem. And when role clarity slips, performance slips with it: Gallup reports that only 46% of employees clearly know what is expected of them at work. A modern org needs a way to keep responsibility visible, not implied. 

The goal of this guide is simple: help you understand a hierarchical structure as an operating system for people, one that can be crisp, humane, and fast when it’s maintained like a real system. 

What is a hierarchical structure in 2026, really? 

A hierarchy is the arrangement of roles into layers, where authority, accountability, and escalation paths become explicit. It’s usually visualized as a pyramid: the top sets direction, the middle coordinates, and the front line executes day-to-day work.

The difference between “hierarchy that helps” and “hierarchy that hurts” is not the existence of levels. It’s whether the levels create clarity or friction. In practice, hierarchy should reduce cognitive load: fewer guesses, fewer backchannels, fewer “let’s circle back.” 

Modern organizations still need clear structure to align people, workflows, and decisions. 

If you want a practical baseline for “what an org chart is” and how it maps reporting lines, this overview of organizational charts and how they work is a helpful reference point. 

How do you define a hierarchical organization without overcomplicating it? 

A hierarchical organization is a company designed with clear levels of authority, where each role knows who it reports to and what decisions it can make. This creates a vertical chain of command, useful for scale, coordination, and accountability. 

In well-run hierarchies, the point is not to “control” people. The point is to allocate decisions to the right places so work doesn’t stall. Deloitte’s research on decision rights underscores the value of clarity: improving decision clarity can double the likelihood of improving processes to maximize efficiency. 

How does hierarchical order actually move work, decisions, and accountability? 

Think of hierarchical order as a routing system. Work moves down for execution, information moves up for visibility, and exceptions move sideways for coordination. When the routing is clear, teams go faster because escalation is predictable. 

Downward flow (direction) 

Strategy becomes goals, goals become programs, programs become tasks. This is where leaders should be specific: what “good” looks like, and what tradeoffs are acceptable. 

Upward flow (signals) 

Front-line teams surface risk, customer feedback, and operational constraints. If leaders want truth, they design for it: short paths, clear forums, and safe escalation.

Where it breaks is when approvals replace ownership. If every decision requires a ladder climb, hierarchy stops being structure and becomes delay. 

What are the levels of an organisation, and what should each level own? 

The levels of an organisation are typically described as top leadership, senior leadership, middle management, and front-line roles. Names vary, but responsibilities should not. 

A simple org chart visual makes reporting lines and accountability immediately visible. 

• Top leadership: Sets direction, defines success metrics, allocates major resources, and owns enterprise-level decisions. 

• Senior leaders: Translate strategy into operating plans, manage major functions, and resolve cross-domain conflicts. 

• Middle managers: Coordinate execution, coach teams, remove blockers, and maintain operational rhythm. 

• Front-line roles: Deliver the work, improve processes, and surface reality from the field. 

The trick is to define where decision-making should live. Too high, and speed dies. Too low, and alignment dies. This balancing act is what makes modern hierarchy design a craft.

What are the key components of a hierarchical business structure? 

A hierarchical business structure is not only “who reports to whom.” It’s a bundle of design choices that determine how work happens. 

• Roles and responsibilities: Clear expectations, decision rights, and boundaries. 

• Reporting relationships: A line of accountability (and an escalation path) that people trust. 

• Departments and groupings: Functional, divisional, geographic, or product-based groupings, chosen for how the business creates value. 

• Communication channels: Cadences, forums, and “default routes” for information sharing. 

• Career pathways: Visible growth routes that keep talent engaged and progressing. 

Done well, hierarchy becomes a shared map. Done poorly, it becomes folklore, where only “old-timers” know how to get things done. 

What are real examples of hierarchical structures across industries? 

You’ll see hierarchy wherever scale, risk, or coordination cost is high, large corporations, government agencies, hospitals, logistics, and complex product organizations.

The pattern is recognizable: executives at the top, leaders of functions in the middle, supervisors near the front line, and specialists delivering the work. In many environments, hierarchy also supports professional specialization. People know what “their lane” is. 

Hierarchy can improve clarity, delegation, and specialization, if communication stays healthy. 

What benefits does a hierarchical structure still deliver (when designed well)? 

The biggest upside of a hierarchical structure is clarity at scale: who decides, who executes, and how work moves. When the model is healthy, employees spend less time navigating ambiguity and more time delivering outcomes.

• Clear roles and communication routes: People know where to go for approvals, support, and escalation. 

• Career development visibility: Advancement paths are easier to explain and plan. 

• Delegation with accountability: Managers can distribute work while maintaining quality control. 

• Specialization: Functional departments allow deeper expertise and consistent standards. 

In other words: hierarchy is a coordination machine. The question is whether you maintain the machine, or let it rust. 

Where does a hierarchical structure break down? 

A hierarchical structure becomes fragile when it’s too rigid for the speed of the environment. The common failure modes are not mysterious. They’re predictable.

• Slow decisions: Too many layers, unclear delegation, or “approval culture.” 

• Silo behavior: Departments optimize locally instead of for the customer or enterprise. 

• Communication lag: Messages travel through multiple hops, losing context each time. 

• Reduced autonomy: People stop experimenting because they feel constrained or unheard. 

These issues get worse when the org chart is outdated because people stop trusting “official structure” and create shadow routes. 

Hierarchical structure vs flat organization: what changes in day-to-day work? 

In a flat setup, authority is distributed and layers are fewer. Employees often have more autonomy, but role boundaries can blur. In a hierarchical organization, roles and reporting lines are clearer, which can reduce confusion, especially as headcount grows. 

Modern work needs flexibility, and it also needs crisp decision routes and accountability. 

Practically, flat orgs trade structure for speed, until ambiguity creates drag. Hierarchies trade autonomy for coordination, until layers create drag. Many modern companies end up hybrid: hierarchy for accountability, cross-functional collaboration for delivery. 

When should you choose a hierarchical business structure (and when shouldn’t you)? 

Choose a hierarchical business structure when coordination costs are real: regulated work, complex operations, multiple geographies, or high-stakes risk management. Hierarchy gives you a dependable way to assign ownership and ensure consistency.

Avoid heavy hierarchy when your main constraint is innovation speed and the work is ambiguous, exploratory, or creative, unless you intentionally keep layers light and decision-making distributed. 

If you’re aligning leadership around “why a chart matters” for transparency, onboarding, and coordination, this perspective on why companies keep org charts reflects how structure supports everyday execution. 

Either way, your structure isn’t the org chart alone. It’s the lived reality of how people route work.

Why do org charts matter inside hierarchical organizations? 

A chart is not a decoration. In a hierarchical organization, it’s a decision-support tool: it clarifies reporting lines, shows spans of control, and reveals gaps. It also supports onboarding. New hires can see where they fit without guessing.

More importantly, org charts keep the human system coherent. When people can quickly see who owns what, collaboration becomes intentional, not accidental. 

How can you manage hierarchy with org chart software, without turning it into bureaucracy? 

The problem isn’t hierarchy. The problem is drift: people move, teams change, and the chart becomes stale. That’s when hierarchical order stops being clear and starts being debated in meetings. 

Modern org chart software solves drift by connecting structure to a reliable data source. In Microsoft environments, the practical approach is a SharePoint-based org chart that uses Microsoft 365 and directory data, so the “official view” doesn’t require manual redrawing. 

Interactive org charts reduce confusion by making structure accessible and easy to navigate. 

For example, a SharePoint org chart app can keep the hierarchy current, let users expand/collapse levels, and surface employee profile details in-context, so managers and employees can act on the structure instead of hunting for it. 

If you’re comparing tool categories, this roundup of org chart software options in 2025 highlights the features that matter most: integration, access control, real-time updates, and exportability. 

If you need a clear, product-focused snapshot of capabilities, layouts, and what “always current” really means in a Microsoft environment, see a SharePoint org chart software overview. 

Best practices for designing a hierarchical structure that stays fast 

A hierarchical structure should be designed like a product: tested, iterated, and kept understandable. Here are practices that hold up in modern, hybrid work. 

• Write decision rights down: If you can’t say who decides, you don’t have a design. You have a hope. 

• Keep spans of control intentional: Avoid overload that forces micro-management. 

• Make cross-team routes explicit: Use lightweight forums so teams don’t escalate everything upward. 

• Maintain clarity across the levels: The levels of an organisation should each have a “why we exist” statement, short, specific, and understood. 

• Update the chart as operations change: If it’s stale, it’s noise. 

Common challenges and how to overcome them 

A hierarchical organization often struggles in the same few places, especially as hybrid work increases the cost of confusion. Gallup links role clarity to outcomes like productivity and retention, and highlights the fragility introduced when expectations aren’t clear.

• Challenge: “Too many approvals.” Fix by delegating decisions downward and defining escalation thresholds. 

• Challenge: Silo rivalry. Fix by aligning goals across functions and establishing cross-functional delivery routines. 

• Challenge: Unclear reporting lines. Fix by ensuring the chart matches reality and is easy to access. 

• Challenge: Change fatigue. Fix by communicating why the structure changed and what stays stable. 

The punchline: structure is only as useful as it is visible. If your hierarchical business structure is real, your org chart should reflect it, and it should stay current as the organization evolves. 

A practical way to keep this visible is to treat your chart like a system artifact. This explanation of what an org chart includes emphasizes roles, relationships, and departments as the core building blocks. 

Conclusion: Is a Hierarchical Structure Right for Your Business? 

In 2026, the best hierarchies aren’t “tall.” They’re explicit. When the levels of an organisation have clear decision rights, teams move with confidence through a shared hierarchical order. If your work demands coordination, risk control, or scale, a hierarchical business structure can be a competitive advantage, especially when your org chart stays accurate and accessible. 

FAQs On Hierarchical Structure

Introduction  

You might be at the stage of buying the good org chart software, or you have used but not that satisfied with that. Maybe you have missed those features which would be helpful for you.  

In this blog, you will understand the quality features which a good org chart software has, and then how to choose the correct software.  

 Let’s move ahead. 

Why Org Chart Software Matters in Modern Organizations.  

The Org chart shows the full profile of an employee from the day he entered the company till the last day. This software matters in modern organizations because it makes onboarding easy, manage head count and plan for future events. Modern org chart software help organizations stay aligned by offering real-time visibility into team structures, reporting lines, and employee roles. 

What Does “best-in-class” Mean in this context?  

Best-in-class means the org chart is different from others. It’s beyond showing who reports to whom, but it offers smart features like easy customization, live update from HR system, smooth integration with tools like teams, SharePoint and strong security. Let’s explore their features:  

1. Intuitive Drag-and-Drop Interface
   You can quickly move employees or whole teams on the org chart using an easy drag-and-drop feature, no tech skills needed. Just grab a profile, drag it to the right spot, and the chart updates instantly. It’s a simple way to keep your org structure up-to-date. 
2. Real-Time Data Sync with HR Systems
   The org chart syncs with your HR systems in real time, so it always shows the most accurate and updated team info, fully automatic no manual updates needed.
3. Interactive and Customizable Views
   You can click to explore different departments or levels, filter views, and adjust layouts to fit your company’s structure and preferences.
4. Built-in Employee Profiles
   Just click on a team member’s name to see everything you need, their role, contact info, department, and even their skills, all in one simple view.
5. Scalability for Growing Teams
   As your company grows, the org chart grows with you, easily add new roles, departments, or employees without starting from scratch.
6. Succession Planning Tools
   Help you identify future leaders, plan career paths, and prepare for key role transitions within your organization.
7. Org Chart Export & Sharing Options
   Download your org chart in different formats (PDF, image, etc.) or share a link with others, perfect for meetings or onboarding. 
8. Integration with Collaboration Tools
   Connects with the tools your teams already use so people can access the org chart directly from platforms like Teams or Slack. 
9. Analytics & Reporting Capabilities
   Get insights into your workforce structure, such as team sizes, vacant roles, or department growth, with built-in analytics and reports. 
10. Mobile-Friendly Experience
    Access and explore the org chart from any device, including smartphones and tablets, great for remote teams or on-the-go managers. 

Key Features That Make Our SharePoint Organization Chart Stand Out 

• Visualize Your Workforce with Clarity 

Easily map your organizational structure with the SharePoint Org Chart. Display reporting lines along with key employee information such as name, department, designation, and profile photo, directly on the chart for instant context. 

• Unified Org Chart and Employee Directory 

Access a centralized platform that combines a visual org chart with a comprehensive employee directory. As part of Beyond Intranet’s HR Directory Software, it helps teams search, navigate, and understand your company’s hierarchy all in one place. 

• Enterprise-Grade Security and Scalability 

Built on Microsoft SharePoint, this solution inherits the robust security, compliance, and scalability features of Microsoft ecosystem, making it a reliable choice for growing organizations. 

• Seamless Integration with Business Tools 

Keep your org chart automatically updated with real-time data sync from HR systems. Integrate effortlessly with Microsoft Teams and other collaboration platforms, so your organization’s structure is always accurate and accessible. 

Choosing the Right Org Chart  

While choosing the org chart software, you should think about how this software can be helpful to you beyond making charts. Some tools offer extra features like real-time updates, team planning, or working with your current apps. It’s also a good idea to check if the software you already use has org chart features. This can save you time and money. 

Conclusion  

Choosing the right org chart software isn’t just about showing who reports to whom. With tools like SharePoint Org Chart software from Beyond Intranet, companies can clearly see how teams are set up, plan for changes, and keep everyone in the loop. 

Since it works well with your existing HR tools and can be customized to fit your needs, it becomes a helpful way to manage team updates, company growth, and communication. It’s more than just a chart; it’s a tool that helps people stay connected and work better together. 

A recent McKinsey study shows this clearly: companies with clear organizational structures see 32% more productivity and 23% lower employee turnover. Still, many organizations rely on old methods—static PDFs or messy spreadsheets that get outdated fast. 

This guide breaks down the five best org chart software options for 2025. You’ll see how they compare based on features, usability, integrations, and overall value. Whether you’re in HR or leading a team, this should help you pick the best org chart program for your needs. 

What Makes Good Organizational Chart Software? 

Before jumping into the tools, it helps to know what actually makes org chart software useful. These are the features that matter most: 

Key Features to Look For 

• Data Integration Capabilities 

The best tools connect directly to your existing systems like Azure Active Directory or your HRIS. No need to enter the same data twice. 

• Visualization Options 

Some teams need a classic top-down chart. Others want to see things in a matrix or flat format. Good software gives you options. 

• Real-Time Updates 

Without automatic updates, charts go stale. The right software pulls live data so charts stay accurate. 

• Accessibility 

People should be able to view charts on any device. That includes phones and tablets. 

• Security and Permissions 

Not everyone should see everything. You need control over who can view or edit different parts of your structure. 

• Customization 

Every organization is different. Your org chart should reflect your language, branding, and structure. 

• Export and Sharing 

You’ll want to export charts as PDFs or SVGs for sharing in reports or meetings. 

The 5 Best Organizational Chart Tools in 2025 

1. SharePoint Org Chart Software by Beyond Intranet

Overview 

This tool is designed for Microsoft environments. It works directly with Azure AD and Microsoft 365. If your company already uses SharePoint, this will feel familiar. 

Key Features 

• Microsoft Integration 

It connects directly to Azure Active Directory and SharePoint. Org charts update automatically based on your existing user data. 

• Views Available 

You can pick from four layouts: 

1. Sky View: great for large orgs 
2. Circle View: stylish and modern 
3. Oval View: compact and focused 
4. Traditional View: standard hierarchy 

• Interactive Features 

1. Zoom in and out 
2. Rotate the chart 
3. Expand or collapse sections 
4. Click to open individual profiles 

• Custom Options 

You can adjust how charts look, what info shows up, and set different defaults for teams. 

• Export Options 

Export your chart to PDF or SVG in one click. 

• Security 

Uses SharePoint’s built-in security. You can decide who sees what. 

User Experience 

If you’re already using Microsoft tools, it fits right in. HR doesn’t need to worry about manual updates—this tool handles that for you. 

Best For 

Companies using Microsoft 365 that want a low-maintenance, secure org chart solution. Especially helpful for enterprises with teams that change often. 

Discover how Beyond Intranet makes org chart management effortless within SharePoint for Microsoft 365 teams.

2. Lucidchart

Overview 

Lucidchart remains one of the best org chart tools if you need flexibility beyond basic structures. It’s a full diagramming tool 

Key Features 

• Collaboration 

Multiple people can edit the same chart at once. This helps when several departments are working on a restructure. 

• Templates 

 A big library of org chart templates helps you start faster. 

• Integrations 

Works with Google Workspace, Slack, Atlassian, and Microsoft Office. It’s not as tightly connected to Microsoft as SharePoint is. 

• Data Import 

Pull data from CSV, Google Sheets, or BambooHR. You’ll just need to refresh it manually. 

• Formatting Rules 

Use conditional formatting to highlight roles or departments. 

• Presentation Mode 

You can walk people through the org chart like a slideshow. 

User Experience 

The drag-and-drop interface is easy to use. But without automated updates, it takes more work to keep charts current. 

Best For 

Teams that want a flexible tool for multiple types of diagrams, not just org charts. Great if you’re using a mix of platforms. 

3. Orginio

Overview 

Orginio is a simpler tool built just for org charts. It balances easy use with clean, professional visuals. 

Key Features 

• Data Management 

Feels like working in a spreadsheet. HR teams used to Excel will find it familiar. 

• Visual Options 

Fewer than others, but the designs are clean and modern. 

• Sharing 

Publish interactive charts, embed them in intranets, or export to file formats. 

• Mobile Compatibility 

Works on phones, though a desktop gives a better experience. 

• Automated Updates 

Supports scheduled imports from HRIS, but not instant syncing. 

• Languages 

Multi-language support is built in. 

User Experience 

Simple interface, less learning needed. It focuses on core features without extras. 

Best For 

Small to midsize orgs that want a focused org chart tool without too much setup. It’s ideal if you don’t need deep Microsoft integration. 

4. Organimi

Overview 

Organimi is built only for org charts. That focus gives it depth in chart-specific features. 

Key Features 

• Scenario Planning 

Create different versions of your chart to plan future changes. 

• Directory Integration 

Works with Active Directory, Google Directory, and CSV files. Setup takes some extra steps. 

• Custom Fields 

Add your own fields to track whatever matters to your organization. 

• Photos 

Strong support for profile photos with size and layout controls. 

• Sharing Options 

Share via secure links, embed online, or export to PowerPoint and PDF. 

• Version History 

You can go back and see past org chart versions. 

User Experience 

Its purpose-built for org charts, so everything is relevant. Still, without automatic sync, you’ll need to spend time on updates. 

Best For 

Companies planning restructuring or needing to run different scenarios. A solid org chart tool without broader diagramming distractions. 

5. Pingboard

Overview 

Pingboard goes beyond org charts. It’s more of an employee directory and engagement tool. 

Key Features 

• Directory 

Full employee profiles with skills, interests, and more. 

• Self-Service 

Employees can update parts of their own profiles. This helps keep data fresh. 

• Out-of-Office 

Time-off tracking is built in. It shows who’s away right on the chart. 

• Team Planning 

 Tools to model future teams and job openings. 

• Recognition 

Built-in features to highlight achievements and milestones. 

• API Access 

Developers can build custom integrations, but it takes technical skills. 

User Experience 

Feels more like a social platform than a diagramming tool. Easy to use and encourages interaction, but it’s less advanced in how charts look. 

Best For 

Companies that want more than just org charts—especially if they value connection and communication between employees. 

Feature Comparison Table 

 SharePoint Org Chart Software is widely recognized as one of the best org chart software options for Microsoft-centric teams. 

Choosing the Right One 

Ask Yourself: 

• Does your team use Microsoft 365? 

• How often does your org structure change? 

• Who’s going to maintain the chart? 

• Do you want something simple or something flexible? 

• Do you need employee engagement features too? 

• What’s your budget? 

Simplified Decision Framework: 

• Use Microsoft 365? → Go with SharePoint Org Chart Software 

• Need visual flexibility? → Try Lucidchart 

• Want something simple? → Pick Orginio 

• Planning major changes? → Go for Organimi 

• Care about employee connection? → Choose Pingboard 

No matter which best organization chart software you choose, what matters most is how well it fits your needs and how easily your team can maintain it. 

Final Thoughts 

Org chart software has moved far beyond static boxes. It now plays a key role in planning, communication, and workforce management. 

If your company runs on Microsoft tools, SharePoint Org Chart Software by Beyond Intranet is the clear winner. It’s secure, needs little maintenance, and stays up to date on its own. 

But every option on this list has strengths. The best one for you depends on your organization’s size, structure, goals, and tech stack. Focus on what matters most to your team—and make sure the tool you choose can grow with you. 

Just remember: software alone isn’t the answer. You still need good data, clear processes, and buy-in from your team to make any org chart truly useful. 

Understanding Organizational Charts

What is an organizational chart?

An organizational chart, or org chart, is a visual way to show your company’s structure. It’s like a map of your people, what they do, and how they connect. Boxes and lines show who reports to whom and connect different departments. Think of it as a family tree, but for your company! 

And what is an org chart?

Same thing. You might hear it called an “organization structure chart” or even an “organogram.” It’s all the same: a diagram that shows the relationships in your company. It gives you a clear picture of the hierarchy and how things work. 

Why are org charts important?

So, why bother with an org chart? Here’s what they help with: 

• Clarity for everyone: New hires quickly see their place. Existing employees see how their roles fit. 

• Improved communication: Knowing who reports to whom helps get information to the right people. 

• Better restructuring: When you need to reorganize, an org chart helps you see how to merge or move resources. 

• Resource planning: Spot gaps in teams and see who might be overloaded. 

Key parts of an org chart

To make a useful org chart, include these things: 

• Positions: Job titles and roles. 

• Relationships: Lines showing who reports to whom. These lines define the chain of command. 

• Departments: Groupings of roles by function, location, or product. 

Exploring Types of Organizational Charts

Okay, so you know what an org chart is, but what kinds are there? 

• Hierarchical Org Chart: This is the usual type. It’s top-down with the CEO at the top, then senior management, and so on. It defines the chain of command clearly. 

• Matrix Org Chart: This one shows dual reporting. Someone might report to a functional manager and a project manager. It’s good for companies with many projects at once. 

• Flat Org Chart: This is also called a horizontal org chart. It has few or no middle managers. It’s common in startups where people have more freedom. 

• Functional Org Chart: This puts employees by their function, like marketing or sales. Each department has a head reporting to a top person. 

• Divisional Org Chart: This structures the company by product lines, markets, or areas. Each division runs on its own and has its own departments. 

Examples of an organizational chart

To give you a better idea, here are some examples: 

• Small startup: Might use a flat org chart, with the founder and everyone reporting to them. 

• Big company: Probably uses a hierarchical org chart, with many layers. 

• Project-based company: Could use a matrix org chart to show how people from different departments work on projects. 

Creating Your Own Org Chart 

So, you’re thinking about creating an org chart for your organization? Great! Here’s how to get started: 

How to create an organisation chart

It might seem hard, but here’s how to do it: 

1. Get your info: Collect details on roles, departments, and reporting. 

2. Pick a format: Decide what type of org chart fits your company. 

3. Use a tool: Use software or templates to create the chart. 

4. Add data: Put all the info in the format you picked. 

5. Check it: Make sure it’s correct and change it as needed. 

Best practices and tips

Here are some tips to keep in mind when building your org chart: 

• Keep it simple: Don’t add too much detail. 

• Use clear titles: Make job titles easy to understand. 

• Update it regularly: Keep the chart current. 

• Include photos: Adding photos can help people connect names and faces, especially in larger organizations. 

• Color-code: Use different colors for different departments or teams. 

Common mistakes 

• Old info: Make sure the chart is up to date. 

• Too complex: Keep it easy to read. 

• Ignoring feedback: Ask people what they think to make it better. 

Keeping your org chart current

You need to keep your org chart current. Update it when roles or departments change. Check it regularly, like every few months. 

Tell everyone about updates so they know the latest structure. You can do this with emails or on your company site. 

Choosing the Right Tools

Okay, you’re ready to make an org chart. What tools can you use? 

5 Tools and software for creating org charts

You have several options for creating your org chart. Here are a few: 

1. Microsoft Visio: A popular option with many templates and good integration with other Microsoft products. 

2. Lucidchart: Offers real-time collaboration and an easy-to-use interface. 

3. SmartDraw: Provides automated formatting and a wide range of templates. 

4. SharePoint: You can create basic org charts within SharePoint using lists or the Organization Browser web part. 

What about SharePoint?

Many organizations already use SharePoint. Did you know you can leverage it for your org chart? A SharePoint org chart can provide easy access to employee information and improve communication, as discussed in this article. Learn More

What if you already use SharePoint?

If you’re already using SharePoint, you might be wondering how to make the most of it for your org chart. 

Benefits of using a SharePoint org chart 

• Easy info: It gives you employee information for better communication. 

• Clear roles: It makes job titles and roles clear, improving efficiency. 

• Simple restructuring: It’s a way to see how to merge teams for better management. 

• Good resource planning: You can find resource gaps and employee skills fast. 

• Remote team view: If your teams are in different places, a SharePoint org chart helps you see how they’re set up. 

How to make an org chart with Beyond Intranet 

If you’re looking for a way to simplify the process and keep your org chart automatically updated, you might consider a dedicated solution. 

Our HR Org Chart 365 integrates directly with SharePoint, automatically pulling data from user profiles to keep your chart up-to-date. Here’s how it simplifies things: 

1. Install the app: Add HR Org Chart 365 to your SharePoint environment. 

2. Connect to SharePoint: The app automatically connects to your SharePoint user profiles. 

3. Customize the layout: Choose from different views (horizontal, compact) and customize the look to match your branding. 

4. Manage the hierarchy: Assign the top person in your organization and exclude any unwanted or deactivated employees. 

5. Share the chart: Make the org chart available to everyone on your intranet. 

Layout and Syncing 

• Easy syncing of employee information from SharePoint user profile 

• Self-explanatory flowchart to depict company hierarchy 

• Display employee information in an attractive tile pattern 

• Show profile picture, name, department, and designation 

• Export to Excel 

Configure and Manage Hierarchy Content Yourself 

• Assign alternate departments or managers to the same employee easily 

• Filter employees easily based on departments 

• Show employees who have no reporting managers separately 

• Exclude employees using Excluded Users Name 

Manage Your Hierarchy View 

• Switch between vertical or horizontal view easily 

• User-based access on the Configuration section 

• Different tile colors to show employees listed in multiple departments 

• Exclude any department easily 

• Department Mapping enables you to start a hierarchy from any department 

Beyond Intranet’s SharePoint Org Chart is available in two attractive formats 

1. Horizontal view 

2. Compact View 

Easy Installation Process 

To get more details and download a free trial, explore our SharePoint Organization Chart.

Beyond Intranet’s Org Chart Application 

It automatically picks up the data that is available on the SharePoint user profile and maps each field with the field on the cards. Employees can keep their profiles updated and so it is updated on the chart as well. It saves a lot of effort and time for HR managers. 

The layout of the chart display is easy to handle. There is a lot of flexibility to personalize the look and feel of the application and brand it to your organization’s theme and logo. And this is not all. There are several other benefits of using modern SharePoint org charts. 

One can use the SharePoint org chart as a standalone add-in, as well as a web part on a Corporate Intranet page. We have a complete suite of products that are really meant for human resource managers and administrators and automate their tedious manual processes.

Understanding Organizational Structure

Relationship between org charts and organizational structure

Org charts visually represent the organizational structure, showcasing how different roles and departments interact. They highlight the hierarchy and can reveal gaps or overlaps in responsibilities, making it easier to identify areas needing adjustment. 

How org charts reflect company hierarchy?

Org charts display the hierarchy, showing who reports to whom and how decisions flow through the company. It helps everyone understand their role, accountability, and clarity across the organization. 

Impact on communication and workflow

Clear organizational structures improve communication and workflow by defining reporting lines and responsibilities. They help prevent misunderstandings and tasks are directed to the appropriate individuals, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity within the company. 

The Evolution of Org Charts 

Traditional vs. contemporary approaches 

Traditional org charts focused on strict hierarchies, often presenting a top-down structure with clearly defined lines of authority. Contemporary approaches emphasize flexibility, with charts evolving to include matrix structures and support for remote teams. 

Adapting org charts for remote and hybrid work environments

Modern org charts need to reflect remote and hybrid work environments, ensuring clarity in reporting lines and communication channels despite physical distances. This involves incorporating digital tools and platforms that facilitate communication and collaboration among geographically dispersed teams. 

Conclusion 

Organizational charts are vital for visualizing your company’s structure, clarifying roles, and improving communication. By understanding the different types of org charts and how to create and maintain them, you can enhance your operational efficiency and employee understanding. 

Ready to experience the benefits and simplify your org chart management? Get a Free Demo of our HR Org Chart 365 and see how it can transform your organization.

What is a SharePoint org chart?

A typical Office 365 org chart displays the internal structure or hierarchy within the organization. It shows the different relationships among functions, departments, teams, as well as individuals. It is usually a graphical representation of the roles, responsibilities, and relationships between individuals within an organization which may have physical or virtual offices in one or multiple locations. It can be helpful for employees working from the office or remotely.

A SharePoint org chart provides vital employee information to the organization, which leads to smooth communication as the organization has easy access to the data. It gives clarity regarding job titles and responsibilities of the employees and is highly used to improve employee efficiency and performance of the company. 

Benefits of having a SharePoint org chart for your organization:

 1. Defining reporting structure

 A typical Office 365 org chart displays the hierarchy or ranking of all team members. It lays down the Head, reporting managers, and the teams beneath them. It defines how the activities such as delegating tasks, coordination, and supervision are directed toward the achievement of organizational goals. Employees can determine if they are at par, below, or above in rank with their teammates and are able to figure out whom to report or ask for help.

 2. Defining roles and responsibility

An Office 365 org chart guides the employees to know their rights and responsibilities. New employees come to know their reporting managers and departments. This helps them understand what roles are expected from them. Even existing employees understand their levels and roles without much ado.

 3. Restructuring

Restructuring or re-organizing teams is an inevitable task for any organization, be it small or big. For growing organizations, a SharePoint org chart is a seamless way to find out how smaller teams can be merged into bigger teams for efficiency and better management. Also, it gives a quick glance at which department has more resources and can be shifted to other teams based on employee skills and project needs.

 4. Resource planning

It’s not always easy to know where a team might be in need of additional resources. Members shouldn’t be added just by listening to a team lead or one member. If a corporation has a well-defined Office 365 org chart, it will be able to immediately identify resource gaps that exist and cannot be adjusted with other skilled resources. Any single member visible in multiple departments or working under several leads may need additional support. The same goes for a manager showing up in the org chart multiple times.

Opposite to this, companies can also plan to have a successful strategy on laying off extra employees in case they decide to cut down on resource costs.

 5. Visualizing remote teams or multi-location teams

Many companies have multiple locations and are geographically dispersed. This can make it difficult to see the composition of teams, such as the tenure of team members, responsibilities, and current projects.

Modern Office 365 org charts have the ability for business leaders to overlay extra information so other individuals can see geographically how teams are made up across the enterprise. The more information decision-makers have, the more capable they are to make informed decisions. By being able to see how their teams are divided, where skills lie, which projects are in flight, and which resources are devoted to them, leaders have the transparency they need.

Traditional Office 365 Org charts vs. Modern charts

There are several problems with the traditional Office 365 org charts. The most obvious is that it is a static document. Whenever a new hire is added or an existing one is relieved, HR has to make manual updates on the chart. This is a cumbersome process that makes the org chart usage rudimentary. It becomes a historic data document rather than a real-time document.

Beyond Intranet’s modern Organizational chart application is a complete solution to all such challenges of human resource teams. It automatically picks up the data which is available on the SharePoint user profile and maps each field with the field on the cards.  Employees can keep their profiles updated and so it is updated on the chart as well. This saves a lot of effort and time for HR managers.

The layout of the chart display is easy to handle. There is a lot of flexibility to personalize the look and feel of the application and brand it to your organization’s theme and logo. And this is not all. There are several other benefits of using modern SharePoint org charts.

One can use the SharePoint org chart as a standalone add-in, as well as a web part on a Corporate Intranet page. We have a complete suite of products that are really meant for human resource managers and administrators and automate their tedious manual processes.

Related article: 9 excellent solutions for all Human Resource folks

Benefits of SharePoint Org chart

With Beyond Intranet’s SharePoint org chart, you can explicitly showcase your company hierarchy from top to bottom in an attractive flowchart format to boost communication.

Layout and Syncing

o    Easy and automatic syncing of employee information from SharePoint user profile

o    Self-explanatory flowchart to depict company hierarchy

o Display employee information in an attractive tile pattern

o    Show profile picture, name, department, and designation

o    Export to Excel

Configure and Manage Hierarchy Content Yourself

o Easily assign alternate departments or managers to the same employee

o    Filter employees easily based on departments

o Separately show employees who have no reporting managers

o    Exclude employees using Excluded Users Name

Manage Your Hierarchy View

o Switch easily between vertical or horizontal view

o    User-based access on the Configuration section

o Different tile colors to show employees listed in multiple departments

o    Exclude any department easily

o    Department Mapping enables you to start a hierarchy from any department

SharePoint org chart by Beyond Intranet is available in two attractive formats:

 1. Horizontal view

2. Compact View

Easy Installation Process

To get more details about our SharePoint org chart and download a free trial, click here.

Ask for a Free Demo

To get a free demo of the application, you can book a session with one of our technical SharePoint experts here.