What principle does a functional organization violate?

The principle of unity of command is violated in a functional organization because this structure allows employees to report to multiple supervisors or functional area leaders rather than a single supervisor. In a traditional hierarchy, the unity of command principle asserts that each employee should have one supervisor to whom they report to, ensuring clear lines of authority, accountability, and streamlined communication. In functional organizations, employees may receive conflicting instructions or priorities from different supervisors, which can lead to confusion and inefficiencies.

Understanding this distinction is essential, as it highlights the challenges organizations might face when implementing a functional structure, including potential issues with clarity in roles and responsibilities, which could impede overall effectiveness in law enforcement or any hierarchical organization.