Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

What is the role of the technostructure in Mintzberg's organizational framework?

1. To perform public relations tasks

2. To set strategic objectives

3. To standardize organizational activities

4. To execute operational tasks

The correct answer is: To standardize organizational activities

In Mintzberg's organizational framework, the technostructure plays a crucial role in standardizing organizational activities. This group is pivotal in creating and managing the procedures, processes, and systems that guide how tasks are performed across the organization. By setting standards and procedures, the technostructure ensures that work can be done efficiently and consistently, which is essential for coordinating activities, maintaining quality, and achieving organizational goals. The technostructure is separate from the direct management and operational teams; rather, it provides the tools and frameworks necessary for effective functioning across various operational domains. Standardization can come in different forms, including standardizing work processes, job descriptions, and technologies, which facilitates a uniform approach to tasks and enhances the organization's overall efficiency. The other options you presented do not accurately describe the principal functions of the technostructure according to Mintzberg. While setting strategic objectives is typically a function of top management, executing operational tasks is primarily the responsibility of the operational core. Public relations tasks are generally part of marketing or communications roles rather than the purview of the technostructure. Therefore, the correct understanding of the technostructure's role within organizational contexts clearly aligns with the focus on standardizing activities.