The document discusses the concept and principles of delegation in an organizational context, outlining the process of assigning duties, delegating authority, and ensuring accountability. It categorizes delegation into various types, such as general, specific, written, unwritten, formal, and informal, and highlights the advantages and potential problems associated with delegation. Steps for successful delegation are also provided, emphasizing goal establishment, supervision, and training.

1. Dr. N.G.P. ASC
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Delegation
• Meaning: Delegation is a process which enables a person to assign
a work to others and delegate them with adequate authority to do it.
• Definition: Terry, "Conferring authority from the executive or
organizational unit to another in order to accomplish particular
assignments".

2. Elements of Delegation
1. Assignment of duties or responsibilities:
2. Delegation of authority
3.Accountability
Principles of Delegation
1. Delegation to go by results expected
2. Non-delegation of responsibility
3. Authority and responsibility should commensurate with each
other
4. Unity of command
5. Definition of limitations of authority
Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College
(Autonomous)

3. Types of Delegation
1. General delegation: General delegation means granting authority to the
subordinate to perform various managerial functions and exercise control
over his subordinates.
2. Specific delegation: Under specific delegation, the orders, instructions or
directions are delegated to a particular person specifically.
3. Written delegation: This type of delegation is made by written orders,
instructions Etc
4. Unwritten delegation: Unwritten delegation means the authority is delegated
on the basis of custom, conversion or usage.
5. Formal delegation: The duties and authority are shown in the organizational
structure of the enterprise. For example, the production manager is assigned
the responsibility and accompanying authority to maintain and increase
production.
6. Informal delegation: In certain cases, a person has to use the authority
without getting it from the top management. The reason is that he can
perform his assigned duties effectively in time.
Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College
(Autonomous)

4. 7. Downward delegation: Downward delegation states when a superior
could delegate duties and authority to his immediate subordinate.
This type of delegation is followed in most of the organizations.
8. Accrued delegation: Under this type of delegation, a subordinate can
delegate his authority to his immediate superiors. It occurs seldom
in an organization.
9. Sideward delegation: A person delegates authority to another person
who is also in the same rank as he is in the organization.
Advantages of Delegation
1. Basis of effective functioning
2. Saving of time
3. Reduction of work
4. Opportunity for development
5. Benefit of specialized service
6. Satisfaction to subordinates
Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College
(Autonomous)

5. Problems of Delegation
I. Hesitation on the part of superior
1. Autocratic attitude
2. Directions
3. Confidence
4. Inability of the subordinate
II. Hesitation on the part of subordinates
1. Love of spoon-feeding
2. Easier to ask
3. Fear of criticism
4. Inadequate incentives
Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College
(Autonomous)

6. Steps Involved In Successful Delegation
1. Establishment of definite goals
2. Developing personal discipline for supervision
3. Establishment of definite responsibility
4. Motivation
5. Determining what to delegate
6. Training
Dr. N.G.P. Arts and Science College
(Autonomous)