An'''[[hierarchy|Hierarchical]] [[organization]] that''' is structureda ascommon way to structure a [[hierarchy]].group of people, where Membersmembers chiefly communicate with their [[immediate superior]] and with their [[immediate subordinate]]s. Structuring organizations in this way is useful among other thingspartly because it can reduce the communication overhead.
OrganizationNot thatall areorganizations nothave organizedthis instructure. thismannerThe areopposite sometimesextreme is described as having a "flat," or "single-level, structure".
Although it is not always the case, verysuperiors oftenin superiorsa hierarchy often have higher [[status]] and [[power]] than their subordinates.
[[HierarchologyHierarchiology]] is the term coined by Dr. [[Laurence J. Peter]], originator (of the [[Peter Principle]] fame), to refer to the study of hierarchical organizations and the behavior of itstheir members.
Hierarchial organizations include corporations, governments, and the [[Roman Catholic church]].▼
▲Hierarchial organizations include most corporations, governments, and the [[Roman Catholic church]]. In fact the word hierarchy was first used in the religious sense.
