In terms of command structure, a functional organization contradicts which principle?

A functional organization is characterized by grouping employees based on their specialized knowledge and skills, rather than having them report to a single supervisor. This structure often leads to situations where employees may have multiple supervisors for different tasks or projects, thereby contradicting the principle of having a single supervisor per worker. Having multiple supervisors can create confusion regarding authority and responsibilities, complicating communication and decision-making.

The other principles, such as clear lines of authority, flat hierarchy, and decentralized control, can exist within a functional organization but do not inherently conflict with its structure as the concept of a single supervisor does. Clear lines of authority can still be maintained even if there are multiple teams or leaders, a flat hierarchy can promote expedited communication across different functions, and decentralized control can empower different teams. Thus, the presence of multiple supervisors in a functional organization clearly contradicts the expectation of a single supervisor per worker.