Assessing the Organizational Structure

Another possible design consideration in your Active Directory domain and OU designs is the organizational structure. The organizational structure is not likely to be the primary consideration when designing your OU structure. Its only advantage is that users are presented with a directory that is organized in a way that they are accustomed. As users browse Active Directory (Yes, you can browse Active Directory using My Network Places.), it is segmented into OUs based on division, physical location, or both. This allows a user visiting Houston to locate a printer or a conference room based on familiar criteria.

Therefore, although it is not recommended that you design your domain or OU structure to mirror your organizational structure just for ease of browsing, it is recommended that the organization's structure be considered as an influence in the OU design.