Delegation : Meaning, Definition, Characteristics

DELEGATION

Delegation – Meaning

Delegation is the assignment or obligation of any responsibility or authority to another person to carry out specific activities. It is one of the essential concepts of management. However, the person who delegates the work remains responsible for the outcome of the delegated work. Delegation empowers a subordinate to make decisions. In general, delegation can save money and time, help in building skills, and motivate people.

Definition

According to Dr. KanthiWijesinghe, “Delegation begins when the manager passes on some of his responsibilities to the subordinate. Responsibility is the work assigned to an individual”.

Characteristics of Delegation

1. Process of assigning authority: Delegation is a process of assigning authority to subordinate to perform specific tasks. Delegation will be more effective if the superior assign the task to an educated person.

2. Shifting decision making authority: This involves the delegating of decision-making authority from one level to the corresponding lower managerial level.

3. Creates link: Delegation of authority generates connection between managerial levels. This shows the singleness of the objective of the management by serving one chain of authority.

4. Authorise subordinates: It authorises subordinates, to act in a well-founded way within the specified limits. Delegation will not permit subordinates to act in unreasonable manners.

5. Creates responsibility: It may create responsibility on subordinates to perform the assigned activities correctly. Delegation gives the lower managerial level the information as to what they need