What Is Delegation?

What is delegation ? Delegation is defined by www.thebrainydictionary.com

as the act of delegating or investing with authority to act for another; or one or more persons appointed or chosen or commissioned to represent others. Delegating is a five step process and is an important part of planning in management. According to the Phillips Community College at the University of Arkansas , the five steps include Identify the task, choose the right employee, give directions, monitor progress, and provide feedback. Delegating is an important part of a manager's responsibilities. Delegating also includes accountability. Accountability is defined as being answerable for the actions of self or orders in the context of delegation. Delegation contains three components. They include communication of the task delegated, transfer of authority, and mutual agreement. There are some instances where delegation can be negative. They include inadequate resources, inappropriate employer direction, and failure to accept accountability. On the other hand, delegation has some positive points also. They include completing the task in the desired amount of time and giving the manager extra time to work on different projects. According to www.businessballs.com there are several levels of delegation .

* Wait to be told, or do exactly what I say ( no delegation at all)

* Look into this and tell me what you come up with" I'll decide (This is asking for investigation and analysis but no recommendation )

* Give me your recommendation, and the other options with the pros and cons of each. I'll let you know whether you can go ahead."

* Decide and let me know your decision, but wait for my go ahead." The other person needs approval but is trusted to judge the relative options.

* Decide and let me know your decision, then go ahead unless I say not to." Now the other person begins to control the action. The subtle increase in responsibility saves time

* Decide and take action, but let me know what you did." Saves more time. Allows a quicker reaction to wrong decisions, not present in final level.

* Decide and take action. You need not check back with me." The most freedom that we can give to the other person. A high level of confidence is necessary, and needs good controls to ensure mistakes are flagged.

There different types of hierchy in our places of employment. There are the "thinkers" and the "doers". Delegation can be utilized as a tool for employees and managers to be more efficient. The planning stage of our company is Human Resources. In this department, all of the critical decisions are made that can impact the company as a whole. There are many different ways that job tasks can be delegated in this particular area. This would enable a steady workflow