An Org Chart is meant to show the structure of a company by showing the different levels of management. It shows the different positions in a company or organization and then shows their direct subordinates.

Typical Uses

It is best used when you need to know who has authority over specific employees in an office. It does not, however, show very much detail. It doesn't show what a specific individual's job is or who he or she works with, only who he or she is superior to.

Best Practices

• Identify the purpose. Decide what company you will be making the chart for and which positions you will be putting in your chart.
• Start the chart. Begin with the head person in your company or organization, normally the manager or boss. Place his or her position or name, depending on which you prefer, inside a rectangle at the top center of the page.
• Add to the chart. Draw a line down from the first rectangle to all of the employees or persons who are second in authority. Place the names or positions of them in the rectangles. It is assumed that rectangles on the same hierarchy level are also at the same level of authority.
• Continue the chart. Continue adding names or positions in rectangles until everyone is accounted for.
• Maintain accuracy. Change in these types of charts is common, so be prepared to constantly change who is in what position as people enter or leave the business or organization.