Question

Describe various elements of delegation of authority.

Answer 1

The process of delegation of authority consists of three interrelated elements which are as follows:

1. Assignment of Tasks and Duties: A manager first outlines the tasks or responsibilities that his subordinates must perform. It's similar to requesting a subordinate to act as the manager's representative. Each subordinate's projected outcomes are likewise outlined. Tasks to be completed or objectives to be met might be used to define a subordinate's duty. When it is expressed in terms of duties or responsibilities, the subordinate must do the work as effectively as possible. The subordinate is supposed to accomplish the goal when the duty is stated in terms of a target. For instance, a worker might be tasked with manufacturing 100 units per day. Since it gives the subordinate a sense of accomplishment, obligation should be expressed in terms of goals wherever feasible.
2. Grant of Authority: Giving subordinates authority entails allowing them to make decisions, take action, utilise resources as needed, and speak on behalf of the superior. When it comes to assigned responsibilities, the subordinates who have been given authority have the ability to make decisions and take action on behalf of the management. Asking a subordinate to complete certain responsibilities without granting him the authority to do so is pointless. Authority is necessary for each subordinate to complete the responsibilities and duties that have been delegated to him. As a result, subordinates ought to be permitted to use resources and take the necessary measures to complete the duties that have been delegated to them. It is also important to clearly identify the boundaries of their power.
3. Creation of Responsibility and Accountability: Subordinates are held accountable for completing the tasks assigned to them after authority and responsibilities are established. Responsibility is the duty owed by a subordinate to carry out an assigned task in the way that is intended. To make sure the subordinate is performing the work in accordance with the manager's expectations, some criteria are established. Additionally, subordinates must report on the outcomes they have attained. Subordinates have an unwavering duty to their superior. It cannot be transferred or delegated. A subordinate's accomplishment of his tasks and duties is the basis for his accountability or answerability.