Which of the following principles emphasizes that subordinates should report to one and only one superior?

Unity of Command

The correct answer is Option (4) → Unity of Command

Unity of Command → According to Fayol there should be one and only one boss for every individual employee. If an employee gets Business Studies orders from two superiors at the same time the principle of unity of command is violated. The principle of unity of command states that each participant in a formal organisation should receive orders from and be responsible to only one superior. Fayol gave a lot of importance to this principle. He felt that if this principle is violated “authority is undermined, discipline is in jeopardy, order disturbed and stability threatened”. The principle resembles military organisation. Dual subordination should be avoided. This is to prevent confusion regarding tasks to be done.

• Unity of Direction → All activities with the same objective should be directed by one head and one plan.

• Order → Refers to proper arrangement of people and materials.

• Authority and Responsibility → Authority must be balanced with corresponding responsibility.