Functional differentiation to optimize network capacity
 
 

In the human neo-cortex definite functions can be correlated to definite regions.

19th-century view of functional differentiation in the human brain

This phenomenon might reflect an optimization of network capacity. Neurons which communicate most often with each other form "geographic regions" and these can naturally be identified with certain functions.

 

 
     
 

Would a company produce similar effects?

Functional differentiation of a logistics company

Suppose you had a geographic map of all company computers and employees including a graphic representation of the intensity of data flow between them. If network capacity were a limited and expensive ressource, it would be natural to move those computers and employees closer to one another which are at the end of the most heavily used communication lines. A clear functional differentiation just as in human brains would be the result.