Back in high school, I was the drummer for our jazz band, which was a lot like being at the bottom of an organizational chart. Tucked away at the back of the stage, it was my thankless duty to count measures for everyone else. While the others got the limelight, I only got the privilege of hauling my drum kit to and from gigs.
No matter where you land on an org chart, they're a vital tool for mapping the structure of your organization. Feel free to dive right into our collection of org chart templates to find the perfect fit, or stick around for insight on how they can streamline your business processes and enhance team dynamics.
Table of contents:
What is an org chart template?
An org chart template is a pre-designed framework for creating an organizational chart, or a diagram of a company's internal structure. Org chart templates give you the basic structure—boxes, connection lines, and placeholder text—sort of like those coloring books for adults, but with less mindfulness and more middle management.
In addition to outlining the roles, responsibilities, and relationships between employees and departments, there are lots of benefits of implementing an org chart:
Removes ambiguity: Not having an org chart is like being lost in an unfamiliar forest—you're just wandering around, asking woodland creatures who your new direct report is. The org chart is a roadmap to understanding who does what, who answers to whom, and who to butter up for a good parking spot.
Improves communication: An org chart streamlines communication by showing you the direct line to the person you need, avoiding that awkward game of corporate telephone where you ask for budget approval and end up signing up for the company talent show.
Fosters a healthier community: An org chart helps employees understand their role within the larger group, creating a sense of belonging. When roles and relationships are clear, there's less chance of stepping on toes or accidentally sending your "sick day" beach selfie to your boss's boss's boss.
Serves as a planning tool: Org charts help you evaluate where you can add new roles, where the gaps are in your team, and where future management bottlenecks are waiting to ambush your operational flow. New hires can also use org charts to understand possible career paths.
Types of organizational charts
There are a few org chart structures you're likely to run into:
Hierarchical: This is your classic top-down organizational structure that displays a clear chain of command, with the Big Boss at the summit and everyone else branching out below.
Divisional: Companies using this model separate operations into semi-autonomous divisions, leading to healthy competition and passive-aggressive holiday parties.
Functional: Organizing staff by specialized areas like marketing or finance, a functional chart shows department-specific roles.
Matrix: This blends aspects of functional and project-based structures, allowing team members to report to multiple leaders. It's kinda like that scene in "Office Space" where Peter says he has eight different bosses.
Flat: Used almost exclusively with startups where the CEO is a 22-year-old with a podcast and the conference room is a ball pit, a flat organizational chart minimizes layers of management to encourage direct communication and teamwork.
Network: This style highlights flexible, often informal connections among individuals or groups, sometimes extending to external partners.
Circular: In this configuration, leadership sits in the middle like a corporate solar deity, with responsibilities radiating outward, symbolizing interconnected roles.
15 free organizational chart templates
There are plenty of free and paid org chart software options out there—if you're looking for something that will scale, start there. But these templates are the perfect fit if you're looking for a no-cost, one-time solution to map out your team's structure.
These templates are predominantly designed for Google Sheets, with a select few available in Google Slides format for more visually driven org charts. To edit them, simply click the "Copy template" button and replace the placeholder text in the Data tab with your team's names and reporting lines. You can then adjust the formatting, colors, and layout to reflect your organization's hierarchy and style.
1. Hierarchical org chart template
Best for: Organizations looking for clear, structured lines of authority and responsibility
A hierarchical org chart depicts how each role relates to one another in a basic, vertical structure. It's the most common type of organizational chart, sometimes called a functional top-down org chart.
The higher up the chart a role is, the more authority it holds. This clear chain of command helps define accountability within the company. It's like Thanksgiving with my family—structured, predictable, and someone always has to sit at the kids' table, even if they have 30+ years of experience.
However, a hierarchical org chart fails to capture cross-departmental relationships, temporary task forces, or the informal connections between coworkers who often collaborate. Its many layers and bureaucratic nature may also slow down decision-making and innovation.
2. Matrix org chart template
Best for: Complex organizations with clear management processes and solid interdepartmental collaboration
A matrix org chart combines two or more organizational structures, typically by function and by project or product. Instead of a traditional top-down hierarchy, employees report to both a functional manager and a product or project manager. It's a bit like having a strict parent and a cool parent, but in the office.
The structure forms a grid, with vertical lines representing functional responsibilities (like finance, marketing, etc.) and horizontal lines for different products or projects. This type of structure recognizes that people can wear multiple hats, but it also often leads to power struggles, conflicting priorities, and general chaos. Project managers and functional managers must be in close contact to ensure team members receive consistent guidance.
A matrix org chart is a lot like the movie "The Matrix." But instead of dodging bullets in slow motion or wearing sunglasses in dimly lit rooms, you're constantly adapting to shifting organizational realities. (I've never seen "The Matrix.")
3. Divisional org chart template
Best for: Breaking down an organization into smaller, more manageable subunits
A divisional org chart groups employees according to the product, market, or business function they contribute to. Rather than reporting to top-level management, employees report to division heads, who report directly to top executives. Divisional org charts prevent higher-ups from being bogged down in day-to-day minutiae.
Of course, some downsides exist. Divisional org charts can lead to unhealthy internal competition and a lack of cooperation across divisions. They also require strong leadership to avoid divisions becoming too powerful. However, for large companies selling diverse products, a divisional structure is an excellent way to stay organized without suffering bureaucratic paralysis.
4. Multidivisional org chart template
Best for: Large companies with many business units
A multidivisional chart takes the divisional concept further, treating divisions as individual entities with their own functional departments. Each division operates like its own company, with leadership and staff overseeing key business areas like product development, marketing, finance, and operations. The multidivisional structure allows each unit to focus on its specific products, customers, and regions.
This org chart comes with challenges, like the potential for lack of communication across units and duplicated resources. But with the proper management and strategic oversight, this flexible model empowers large companies to operate with an entrepreneurial spirit.
5. Flat org chart template
Best for: Startups and smaller companies aiming to enhance creativity, communication, and employee empowerment
As the name suggests, a flat org chart depicts a horizontal structure with few levels of management and minimal bureaucracy. With no pesky hierarchies or chain of command to slow things down, you're free to shortcut straight to the top. Or bottom. Or middle.
With a flat structure, communication lines are short, and employees often interact directly with executives. This can lead to faster decision-making and greater flexibility. However, as companies grow, flat org charts can become unwieldy without proper controls and policies in place. This doesn't mean large companies can't have a flat organizational structure—Valve is famously flat—but these org charts work best for small startups that encourage maximum creativity and risk-taking.
But be prepared for the chaos that can ensue when no clear leader is calling the shots. Without assigned levels of responsibility, you never know who's actually in charge of any given task. And because everyone's opinion matters, meetings can feel like an open mic night. Or worse, a never-ending filibuster where you start wondering if you'll ever see your family and friends again.
6. Function-based org chart template
Best for: Organizations that value efficiency over creativity or in a highly regulated industry
A function-based org chart groups employees based on their common expertise, not by department or reporting line. This can be an effective way to visualize teams that cross departments or span locations.
This type of org chart shows how work flows between departments based on individuals' specific functions and roles. It's ideal for clarifying who does what and avoiding turf wars.
While a function-based org chart is excellent at making everyone a master of their own domain, it can become a bit of a juggling act if the organization starts throwing more balls in the air. And its rigid structure can be stifling for innovative thinkers.
7. Project-based org chart template
Best for: Organizations with large and complex project-based initiatives
A project-based org chart outlines the structure of a specific project rather than an entire company. It shows the key roles and reporting relationships needed to complete a project successfully.
Extremely useful for complex or long-term projects, project org charts empower teams by defining their scope of work. A project-based structure also makes it easy to spot initiatives that may need more (or fewer) resources.
8. Network org chart template
Best for: Organizations interested in decreasing overhead or removing inefficient roles
No strict hierarchy here—network org charts coordinate activities through a cluster of different companies. This method allows organizations to outsource functions like marketing or manufacturing to external partners who specialize in these areas.
Issues like coordination and trust can be significant hurdles in a network model. Also, the contractual nature of these networks might discourage long-term investments or information sharing by partners, potentially impacting the network's effectiveness.
9. Inverted org chart template
Best for: Companies looking to prioritize frontline employees
An inverted org chart flips the traditional hierarchy on its head. Instead of having all power and decision-making at the top, it empowers employees at all levels.
In an inverted org chart, the CEO and executives are at the bottom, supporting the frontline workers above them. The employees who directly serve customers and get their hands dirty with the day-to-day work have more authority and autonomy.
Rather than issuing orders from an ivory tower, leadership takes on more of a coaching role. They ask frontline teams what they need to do their jobs effectively and work to enable their success. The executives are there to facilitate, not dictate.
10. Product-based org chart template
Best for: Organizations with many product divisions
A product-based org chart follows a divisional structure that groups products into separate divisions. It depicts the key roles and reporting relationships that enable the team to build and improve products effectively. This model allows for focused product development, improved efficiency, and rapid innovation.
However, each product division has its own set of specialists, and while that's great for focus, it can lead to redundancy. It's like having a kitchen gadget for every conceivable task. Owning a banana slicer, an avocado pitter, and an egg separator is fun, but soon you're wondering how a non-archaeologist can find the citrus zester in the buried ruins of your utensil drawer. As voice-of-a-generation Alanis Morissette said, it's like having 10,000 spoons when all you need is a knife. (I'm fairly certain that song is about org charts.)
11. Geographic org chart template
Best for: Companies with offices in multiple cities, states, or countries
A geographic org chart depicts an organization's structure based on physical locations such as regions, states, or countries.
A geographic org chart provides a straightforward visual representation of how your organization's physical footprint aligns with its leadership and reporting structure. It helps ensure communication and collaboration flow effectively across the entire company, regardless of location.
12. Customer-centric org chart template
Best for: Customizing divisions around major market segments such as client groups, industries, or population groups
A customer-centric org chart optimizes your operations around the customer experience. It groups employees by the type of customer they serve rather than by job function.
For example, you might have separate divisions focused on:
B2C vs. B2B clients
eCommerce shoppers vs. in-store customers
Long-time loyal customers vs. new prospects
By focusing on a specific customer segment, each team can better understand customer needs and tailor solutions appropriately. This also promotes accountability, as each team is directly responsible for the satisfaction and retention of their designated customers.
13. Hybrid org chart template
Best for: Large, complex organizations with many divisions that can benefit from different organizational structures
A hybrid organizational chart combines two or more types of organizational structures. For example, you may have a multidivisional structure to create self-contained divisions. Then, leadership within each division selects the best structure to manage roles and responsibilities. One division may choose a hierarchical structure, where the higher you are, the less likely you are to know how the printer works. While another division might prefer a flat structure, making decisions over a game of foosball.
A hybrid organizational chart is a useful option for balancing multiple priorities. When thoughtfully designed and implemented, it can help overcome the limitations of a single structure while gaining the benefits of different approaches.
14. Circular org chart template
Best for: Companies looking to foster a sense of unity and break down silos
Instead of visualizing a company from the top down in a pyramid-like structure, a circular, or round, org chart is drawn from the center out. The centermost circle represents the company's highest-level officer. The outermost circles represent individual contributors.
Unlike a top-down hierarchy, everyone is equidistant from the center. It's like a round conference room table where everyone has an equal chance to make awkward eye contact with the CEO during meetings. This structure symbolizes unity, collaboration, and equality, which is ironic considering how the entire organization literally orbits around the CEO.
15. Roles and responsibilities org chart template
Best for: Clearly defining each position's responsibilities in an organization
A roles and responsibilities org chart outlines each role, who fills it, and their core duties. Like the workplace equivalent of keeping a chore chart on the fridge, this org chart might not be glamorous, but it keeps the peace and ensures everything gets done.
With clearly defined roles, employees know exactly where their responsibilities begin and end. They'll also have a better sense of how their position fits into the overall success of your company, which helps foster collaboration and teamwork.
Why use a template for an organizational chart?
An org chart template offers an easy way to create a professional organizational chart without investing much time or money. With some simple edits, a good template can work wonders for visualizing your company's structure and reporting relationships.
Saves time: Templates provide a pre-made structure, allowing you to plug in information without having to fuss with aligning boxes, choosing fonts, or picking color schemes. The pre-designed layout lets you quickly assemble a professional-looking org chart in minutes. This is especially handy for small businesses or startups where resources are limited.
Consistent design: Templates ensure that all organizational charts within a company follow a uniform style, making it easier for employees and stakeholders to navigate.
Easy to update: Most templates are user-friendly and designed for individuals without extensive graphic design skills. A template simplifies the process, allowing team leaders or managers to create or update org charts without specialized knowledge or software.
Standardized information: A template can help standardize org charts across different departments or branches. If your company operates in multiple locations, a template keeps everyone on the same page.
With some time invested upfront, an organizational chart template will become an indispensable resource for onboarding new hires, planning reorgs, and keeping everyone aligned on roles and responsibilities.
How to create an org chart template for your organization
An org chart seems straightforward enough, but building one that's clear, useful, and visually appealing is an art form. You've got a few options here.
Online templates
If you want a simple, low-tech solution, find a free template (hint: scroll up) and use a word processor like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, a spreadsheet program like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, or a presentation program like PowerPoint or Google Slides. Just open the file, input departments, names, and roles, and you're done. Zero design skills required.
While convenient, the downside is that the template may not perfectly suit your needs. But when you need a quick and dirty chart, a template can't be beat.
Specialty software
For more advanced options, consider flowchart software like Lucidchart or Creately. These tools give you more flexibility to create exactly the look you want. You can choose from loads of templates and then customize the heck out of them. The end result looks far more professional than any standard template.
The only downside is the learning curve. Even if the software isn't too complicated, it may take an hour or two to get comfortable with all the options.
Ultimately, you need to weigh how much control and customization you want over your org chart versus how much time you're willing to put into creating it. Templates keep it simple, while software gives you more power and flexibility.
Whichever route you pick, keep in mind that org charts have a tendency to change the moment you finish them. It's wise to choose something that you find easy enough to tweak again.
Org chart software
If you find yourself editing your org chart more than once or twice, it's probably time to invest in org chart software, or even in HR software that also includes org charts as a feature. That will also allow you to automate your org chart, eliminating the manual work involved in updating roles and titles.
A well-thought-out org chart can be the difference between a smooth-sailing corporate cruise and a "who's steering this thing?" kind of panic. And if you ever find yourself at the bottom of one, just remember: even Oprah was once not a CEO.
Organizational chart templates: FAQ
What is the best program to create org charts?
Dedicated diagramming tools like Lucidchart offer drag-and-drop features and a bunch of design options. Presentation apps like Apple Keynote or PowerPoint can also handle the job. If you're into quick, fuss-free charts, Excel or Google Sheets (paired with a template) should do the trick.
Is there an org chart template in Google Docs?
Google Docs itself doesn't come with a one-click org chart option, but you can insert a Google Drawing and craft your own. Or you can hop into Google Slides or Sheets, where it's easier to find pre-made templates. Bonus tip: Google's Template Gallery sometimes sneaks in helpful diagrams, so snoop around before you start from scratch.
What is the best Google tool to make an org chart?
Most people turn to Google Sheets or Google Slides since both allow shapes, lines, and easy rearranging. Sheets gives you a straightforward data-driven approach, while Slides is better if you're partial to design tweaks or adding pictures of everyone's smiling faces. Either way, it's a low-friction route that works fine for small to medium-sized businesses.
How often should I update my org chart?
A quarterly review tends to keep things fresh, but definitely refresh your org chart whenever major changes happen (new hires, promotions, organizational shake-ups). The goal is for your chart to stay true to the real world, not some alternate dimension where Kyle's still an intern two years after his promotion.
Related reading:
This article was originally published in January 2024. The most recent update was in February 2025.
