Which among the following is not an advantage of effective delegation…

The correct answer is Option (4) → It promotes flexibility and initiative because each division functions as an autonomous unit which leads to faster decision making.

Delegation means passing authority down from a manager to a subordinate, so that the subordinate can do the work assigned to him.

• Option (1) The managers are able to function more efficiently as they get more time to concentrate on important matters. — An advantage of delegation (Incorrect). Routine work goes to subordinates. The manager is then free for work that needs his attention. This is effective management.

• Option (2) It helps in the expansion of an organisation by providing a ready workforce to take up leading positions in new ventures. — An advantage of delegation (Incorrect). Subordinates who have handled authority are trained and ready. So the firm can open new units without waiting to find managers.

• Option (3) It establishes superior-subordinate relationships, which are the basis of hierarchy of management. — An advantage of delegation (Incorrect). Each time authority is passed down, a superior and a subordinate are linked. These links form the levels of management.

• Option (4) It promotes flexibility and initiative because each division functions as an autonomous unit which leads to faster decision making. — Not an advantage of delegation (Correct). This is an advantage of the divisional structure. There each product division works as an autonomous (self-governing) unit. It is about how the organisation is divided, not about a manager passing work to a subordinate.