Create an HR Department Organizational Chart

Create an HR Department Organizational Chart

Learn how to create an HR organizational chart, including software options, how to keep the chart clear, and what information to include.

Human Resource (HR) departments commonly use organizational charts to streamline company operations and clarify the tasks employees perform. An organizational chart also makes it easier to see which functions a company must accomplish and which people will be responsible for them. If you want to create an organizational chart for your company, here’s how.

1. Get the software. There are plenty of software products you can use to create the chart. One of the most basic options is a word processor such as Microsoft Word, which provides symbols and shapes for creating a chart. This can be difficult, however, because you will need to arrange the shapes manually. An easier alternative is Microsoft PowerPoint, which includes a variety of pre-installed chart designs; you only need to select the chart shape and design that works best for your company and organizational structure. The best software for making charts, however, is specialized applications such as OrgPlus, which is designed to keep track of HR information.
2. Keep it simple. When creating the organizational chart, many people feel compelled to include as much information as possible. The best charts, however, are streamlined and easy to understand. Focus on positions in the company. Instead of adding the tasks first and later supplying the names of the employees who perform them, focus on the employees and then add their tasks. After all, some employees actually do additional tasks for which they should be credited, while some tasks are done only seasonally and need not be included in the organizational chart.
3. Limit your information. Basic information such as employees’ personal details, job descriptions, and salaries can be included in the organizational chart so that it can be used for quick reference. Apart from that, however, avoid including personal information such as an employee’s background or comments that supervisors may have about the person. This is especially important if you plan to display the organizational chart in the company office or give copies to a large number of people.
4. Determine the chart’s comprehensiveness. Also consider how comprehensive the chart should be. If your company has a branch in other areas, or if it has a national headquarters, assess whether you should include national officers on the organizational chart and whether you need to include everyone. In most cases, larger companies with several branches focus on the local branch and include only a few key top officers on the chart, such as the CEO, the president, the vice president, and the board of trustees.

Be sure to double-check the chart before printing it, especially since people can easily be offended if their names are misspelled or their positions are mixed up.