In this chapter, my aim is describe the links between the formal and informal structure of organizations, and propose a systematic approach to analyzing these links. I first discuss how the two are related and influence each other. Next, revisiting the theme of organizations as “marvels but not miracles” I argue that formal design can be useful even when it not predicated on high levels of comprehension or intelligence. This is because it can compensate for aspects of the informal organization, as well as shape the emergence of the informal organization. I discuss an instance of a micro-structural approach to such issues in some detail, and conclude by offering a multiplex network formulation that can help us make progress in studying the complex interactions between formal and informal organizational structures.
