Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

Which component of Mintzberg's framework involves the basic work related to an organization's product or service?

1. Technostructure

2. Support staff

3. Strategic apex

4. Operating core

The correct answer is: Operating core

The operating core is the component of Mintzberg's framework that encompasses the fundamental work involved in delivering an organization's product or service. This includes the individuals and teams who perform the essential tasks that directly contribute to the production and provision of goods or services. It consists of those employees engaged in the day-to-day operational activities that are critical for the organization's primary functions. In contrast, the other components serve different roles within the organizational structure. The technostructure pertains to the analysts and experts who design systems, procedures, and processes necessary for the organization to function effectively. Support staff offers assistance to the operating core but does not engage directly in the core tasks of producing products or services. The strategic apex consists of top management and leaders who are involved in the broader vision and strategic direction of the organization rather than the hands-on operations. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why the operating core is the focal point for the basic work related to the organization's offerings.