Developing an Organizational Chart for Farm Employees

Managing a farm is no easy job. Managing people – in some cases – is even more stressful. Dealing with the different personalities, perspectives and skill levels of employees can be a major obstacle when it comes to being an effective leader. However, organizational charts, also known as “org” charts, can help you delegate tasks to specific employees and prevent communication hiccups.

“Organizational charts are a visual depiction of your farm’s staffing structure,” says Jim Versweyveld, Extension Farm Management Outreach Specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “They define roles and clearly illustrate ‘who reports to whom,’ with connecting lines showing accountability and reporting relationships.”

Not only do org charts outline roles, Versweyveld says they can also assist with:

• Helping onboard new employees by clearly showing who to go to with questions.
• Streamlining communication and reducing potential conflict from power struggles.
• Identifying logical farm successors and facilitating career paths for their skill development.
• Aligning job titles (levels) within your organization.
• Defining otherwise confusing family member roles for non-family team members.

Fortunately, putting together a team org chart does not have to be complex. Versweyveld says it can be completed in three easy steps.

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