There is one head 'A' who has two lines of authority under her/ him. One line consists of B-C-D-E-F. Another line of authority under 'A' is L-M-N-O-P. If 'E' has to communicate with 'O' who is at the same level of authority then she/he has to traverse the route E-D-C-B-A-L-M-N-O. This is due to the principle of ________.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Scalar Chain
Option (1) Order — Incorrect. The principle of order says there should be a place for everything and everyone, and each should be in its place.
Option (2) Scalar Chain — Correct. The scalar chain is the formal line of authority from the highest to the lowest rank. Communication must travel along this chain, so E must go up to A and come down to O. Fayol allows a shortcut, the gang plank, only in an emergency.
Option (3) Equity — Incorrect. Equity means fair and kind treatment of all workers, with no discrimination.
Option (4) Unity of Direction — Incorrect. Unity of direction means one head and one plan for a group of activities with the same objective. It is not about the route a message takes.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “(ix) Scalar Chain: An organisation consists of superiors and subordinates. The formal lines of authority from highest to lowest ranks are known as scalar chain.” “According to Fayol, “Organisations should have a chain of authority and communication that runs from top to bottom and should be followed by managers and the subordinates.”” “Let us consider a situation where there is one head ‘A’ who has two lines of authority under her/ him. One line consists of B-C-D-E-F. Another line of authority under ‘A’ is L-M-N-O-P. If ‘E’ has to communicate with ‘O’ who is at the same level of authority then she/he has to traverse the route E-D-C-B-A-L-M-N-O. …” |