Question

Which of the following statements correctly highlight the difference between delegation and decentralisation?

• A. Delegation is a necessary act arising from division of work, while decentralisation is an optional policy decision.
• B. In delegation, authority is limited between a superior and subordinate, whereas decentralisation distributes authority to the lowest levels.
• C. Delegation gives more freedom of action to subordinates than decentralisation.
• D. Delegation aims to enhance the role of subordinates, whereas decentralisation aims to reduce the workload of the superior. Choose the correct option:

Hint:

Delegation = Assigning tasks with retained control; Decentralisation = Spreading authority for autonomy across levels.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

(A) Correct: Delegation arises naturally from the division of work and is a process where a superior assigns tasks to a subordinate. Decentralization is a broader policy decision involving systematic distribution of authority across various levels.
(B) Correct: Delegation is a direct superior-subordinate relationship, whereas decentralization disperses authority to multiple levels or units.
(C) Incorrect: Delegation offers less freedom as the superior retains ultimate control, whereas decentralization grants greater autonomy to subordinates.
(D) Incorrect: Delegation primarily reduces the workload of the superior, while decentralization aims at empowering subordinates and enhancing organizational flexibility.