Explain about gangplank introduced by Henri fayol?

Answer 1

Normally the communication in an organisation is carried on by the Scalar Method. That is the communication moves in a fixed hierarchical order. From upwards to downwards or vice versa. However, under certain circumstances for the benefit of the organisation this Scalar Method of communication may be given up for the Gang Plank method which allows non-routine horizontal (at times inter-departmental) communication between personnel.

Fayol explains it with an excellent example.

An organisation has A as the Head. A has two subordinates - B and L. B has subordinates C, D and so on. L has subordinates M, N and so on.

Now suppose, F needs to communicate with P. If the scalar method is followed, then the communication will have to be routed all the way up through A and then to L and downwards. This will cause a lot of paper-work, delay and possibly red-tape. Thus, in such cases, a Gang Plank, represented with a dotted-line may be established between F and P directly in the company's interest and to save cost and time.