How does Schlosser characterize the management style in fast-food restaurants?

Schlosser characterizes the management style in fast-food restaurants as organized and hierarchical. This reflects the systematic approach that fast-food chains adopt to maintain efficiency and consistency across their operations. Such a management structure establishes clear lines of authority and responsibility, which is essential for managing a large workforce and ensuring that each employee knows their specific role within the organization. This hierarchy is a core element of how fast-food companies maintain their productivity, standardization, and ability to deliver a uniform product and service to customers regardless of location.

The other management styles—the relaxed and informal approach, total independence of workers, or a chaotic and unstructured environment—do not accurately capture the rigorous management practices employed in the fast-food industry. The emphasis is instead on training, routine procedures, and a chain of command that streamlines operations and enforces corporate policies effectively.