What is Hierarchy?

There are various definitions about hierarchy. In the dictionary, it is described as an arrangement of items (objects, names, values, categories, etc.) and is represented as being “above, “below” or “the same level as” one another. Originally, hierarchy comes from the Greek word hierarchia which literally means “leader of sacred rites”. Different fields of science and learning have its own usage of the word hierarchy. It occurs in social organizations, biological structures and in biological taxonomies. Computer technology uses it in file systems, and in the military it determines the title or rank of its men.

Hierarchy, in leadership and governance, can be depicted on a pyramid or diagram that displays the arrangement of positions from the superior down to the subordinates. As seen on an organizational chart, the horizontal and vertical links follow a path which identifies the relationship of one entity to another entity. For instance, two colleagues are under the same superior so both will report and obey the commands of that particular office head. The concept of hierarchy here decides on where you should submit and give your allegiance.

A democratic or republic kind of government, for example, follows a specific hierarchy of powers. The executive department is headed by the president, followed by the next set of officials in the legislative division and the judicial part and down to the governors and city mayors. As observed, the measure of authority and power decreases from the top, down to the lowest level. This further tells us that the supreme influence is vested on the president and the least power goes to the position found at the bottom. This is also what other forms of government demonstrate. Whatever title or rank we see at the top of the pyramid has the ultimate control of the whole system.
On the other hand, the business hierarchy is described in a structure of the management of business, from the top of the company- the managing director, through to the floor worker, who reports to their foreman, in a manufacturing firm. Manager and subordinate relationship is reflected in a hierarchical chart.

There are advantages and disadvantages in hierarchical systems. The major advantage is it helps to create a clear communication line between the top and the bottom of the business. While the disadvantage comes in when the hierarchy becomes inflexible and difficult to adjust- especially when the business need to adapt to changing markets.