This article analyzes the formation and development of virtual organizations. The emergence of virtual structures is seen as an objective stage in the evolution of organizational structures under the influence of socio-economic factors. The article analyzes the key characteristics of network structures as a predecessor
and a base of virtual structures. Particular emphasis is given to the main approaches to the definition of a virtual organization. The article considers basic types of virtual structures, the basic characteristics of virtual organization, the advantages and disadvantages of virtual structures. The authors reveal the peculiarities of management functions in virtual organizations, the planning, organization, motivation and control, formation of organizational culture. The article assesses the prospects for the development of virtual organizations in the
current economic conditions.