1 - General Principles of Organization

Abstract

Organization is the arrangement of people with a common objective in a manner that groups related tasks, establishes areas of responsibility, and defines lines of communication and authority. This chapter focuses on the general principles of organizing the Security Department of a company. The six basic principles of organization include logical division of work, according to purpose, process, clientele, time, or geography; clear lines of authority, visible on the organizational chart as a pyramidal structure; limited span of control; unity of command; true delegation of responsibility and authority, with attendant accountability; and coordination of efforts through training and communication. Within the company or corporate organizational structure, security in recent years has shown a sharp vertical movement, an ascent primarily attributable to international terrorist threats, rising crime, and increased recognition of security's contribution to profits. Security is now viewed as a critical part of most organizations with security professionals reporting directly to senior management, if not the chief executive officer. The Security Department also contributes to company or corporate profits by reducing or eliminating preventable losses, including those caused by criminal behavior. In the corporate or conglomerate structure, the Corporate Security Director serves generally in a staff relationship both to higher management and to the individual company Security Directors. They also serve as an advisor and counselor to each division's Security Director, giving the division director support in terms of professional expertise, advice, encouragement, and constructive criticism.