Which of the following statements is not a characteristic of Coordination:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Sole responsibility of supervisory level
Option (1) A deliberate function — A characteristic of coordination (Incorrect). Coordination does not happen by itself. A manager has to bring it about in a conscious and deliberate way, even where people already cooperate.
Option (2) Ensures unity of action — A characteristic of coordination (Incorrect). It binds the efforts of different people and departments into one common action.
Option (3) An all pervasive function — A characteristic of coordination (Incorrect). It is needed at all levels and in all departments, because the activities of departments depend on one another.
Option (4) Sole responsibility of supervisory level — Not a characteristic of coordination (Correct). Coordination is the responsibility of all managers: top, middle and operational. The supervisory level is only one of them.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Characteristics of Coordination … (ii) Coordination ensures unity of action: The purpose of coordination is to secure unity of action in the realisation of a common purpose. …” “(iv) Coordination is an all pervasive function: Coordination is required at all levels of management due to the interdependent nature of activities of various departments. …” “(v) Coordination is the responsibility of all managers: Coordination is the function of every manager in the organisation. Top level managers need to coordinate with their subordinates to ensure that the overall policies for the organisation are duly carried out. Middle level management coordinates with both the top level and first line managers. Operational level management coordinates the activities of its workers to ensure that work proceeds according to plans.” “(vi) Coordination is a deliberate function: A manager has to coordinate the efforts of different people in a conscious and deliberate manner. …” |