Delegation. Image credit blackenterprise.com
ZIMSEC O Level Business Studies Notes: Delegation
- Delegation-is the transfer of authority and responsibility by a superior/manager to a subordinate
- to carry out specific function,duties and tasks
- The delegator remains accountable for the outcome of the delegated work
- Delegation results in decentralisation
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Allows the manager to focus on key decisions, functions and tasks | The manager/superior is still accountable for the subordinate's actions |
| Allows subordinates to quickly make decisions on the spot | Quality of decisions is dependant on the quality of those to whom authority is delagated |
| Locally made decisions that take local environmental conditions | Makes coordination difficult |
| Allows for specialists to be hired for specific tasks, functions and duties | Complicates the communication process. |
| Can lead to a motivated workforce/Boosts employee morale | Increased salary costs as delegation often comes with a pay increases |
| Prepares subordinates to eventually be promoted/take over top positions (A form of on-the-job training) | Makes standardisation/uniform decision making difficult |
| Suitable for large organisations | Some tasks are not delegatable e.g. those that require judgement and skill of the manager |
To access more topics go to the O Level Business Notes page.
