Which of the following pairs of an element of delegation and its feature is correctly matched?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Accountability - The subordinate is expected to explain the consequences of his actions or omissions.
Option (1) Responsibility - It is generally enforced through regular feedback on the extent of work accomplished. — Incorrect. Enforcement through regular feedback is a feature of accountability. Responsibility is the obligation to properly perform the assigned duty.
Option (2) Authority - It is assumed by the subordinate when a task is assigned to him by the superior. — Incorrect. It is responsibility that is assumed by the subordinate. Authority is delegated by the superior and flows from top to bottom.
Option (3) Responsibility - It helps to maintain order by giving managers the right to exact obedience from the workforce. — Incorrect. This is a feature of authority. Authority relationships keep order by giving managers the right to exact obedience. Responsibility is a duty to perform.
Option (4) Accountability - The subordinate is expected to explain the consequences of his actions or omissions. — Correct. Accountability means being answerable for the final outcome. So the subordinate must explain the results of what he did or failed to do.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “(i) Authority: … Authority relationships helps to maintain order in the organisation by giving the managers the right to exact obedience and give directions to the workforce under them. …” “(iii) Accountability: Delegation of authority, undoubtedly empowers an employee to act for his superior but the superior would still be accountable for the outcome: Accountability implies being answerable for the final outcome. Once authority has been delegated and responsibility accepted, one cannot deny accountability. It cannot be delegated and flows upwards, i.e., a subordinate will be accountable to a superior for satisfactory performance of work. It indicates that the manager has to ensure the proper discharge of duties by his subordinates. It is generally enforced through regular feedback on the extent of work accomplished. The subordinate will be expected to explain the consequences of his actions or omissions. In conclusion, it can be stated that while authority is delegated, responsibility is assumed, accountability is imposed. Responsibility is derived from authority and accountability is derived from responsibility.” |