Which structure combines staff specialists with line organizations?

The line and staff organization structure is characterized by the integration of both line personnel, who are directly involved in the core operations and decision-making of the organization, and staff specialists, who provide expertise and support in specific areas such as administration, finance, or human resources. This combination allows for a more efficient operation, as line managers can focus on their primary responsibilities while having access to specialized knowledge and support from staff personnel.

In this type of structure, line staff have authority and responsibility for the organization's goals, while staff specialists serve in advisory roles and do not have direct authority over line personnel. This creates a balanced approach where direct responsibilities are maintained, but critical expertise is also utilized to enhance decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.

Other organizational structures do not combine line and staff elements in the same way. For instance, a staff organization primarily consists of personnel who provide advisory services and do not have line authority. A functional organization typically divides tasks based on specific functions or specialties without necessarily incorporating a line-and-staff approach. An auxiliary organization refers to supporting entities that provide additional resources and services but do not integrate staff roles with line operations as effectively as the line and staff organization does.