मराठी

Concept of Delegation of Authority

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Estimated time: 13 minutes
CBSE: Class 12

Meaning

  • Delegation refers to the downward transfer of authority from a superior to a subordinate.
  • It is essential for organisational efficiency.
CBSE: Class 12

Definition: Delegation

Delegation is the process a manager follows in dividing the work assigned to him so that he performs that part which only he because of his unique organisational placement, can perform effectively and so that he can get others to help with what remains. - Louis Allen

CBSE: Class 12

Definition: Delegation of Authority

Delegation of authority merely means the granting of authority to subordinates to operate within prescribed limits. - Theo Haimman

CBSE: Class 12

Elements of Delegation

1. Authority

  • Right to command.
  • Flows top to bottom (downward).
  • Arises from a formal position in the organisation.
  • Restricted by laws and organisational rules.

2. Responsibility

  • Obligation to perform an assigned duty.
  • Flows upward.
  • Must be balanced with authority - without this balance, it leads to either misuse or ineffectiveness.

3. Accountability

  • Answerability for outcomes.
  • Cannot be delegated.
  • Enforced through feedback.
  • Flows upward to the superior.
CBSE: Class 12

Comparison of the Three Elements

Basis Authority Responsibility Accountability
Meaning Right to command Obligation to perform Answerability for outcomes
Can be delegated? Yes Yes No
Origin Formal position Assigned duty Delegated responsibility
Direction of flow Downward Upward Upward
CBSE: Class 12

Importance of Delegation

  • Effective management: frees the manager's time for high-priority work.
  • Employee development: develops latent abilities; prepares future managers.
  • Motivation of employees: builds trust, responsibility, self-esteem, and confidence.
  • Facilitation of growth: creates a ready workforce for new ventures.
  • Basis of management hierarchy: defines superior–subordinate relationships and power structure.
  • Better coordination: clear authority–responsibility–accountability relationships reduce overlap.
CBSE: Class 12

Key Points: Concept of Delegation of Authority

  • Delegation = downward transfer of authority from superior to subordinate.
  • Three elements: Authority (command), Responsibility (obligation), Accountability (answerability).
  • Authority and responsibility flow in opposite directions - authority flows down, responsibility flows up.
  • Accountability cannot be delegated - it always stays with the superior.
  • Responsibility must be balanced with authority to be effective.
  • Delegation is the basis of the management hierarchy - it defines how power is structured across levels.
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