chain of command

Chain of command

The formal hierarchy of authority, reporting relationships, and communication channels running from top management down to frontline staff.

Unity of command

A management principle dictating that each employee should receive orders from and report directly to only one supervisor.

Span of control

The number of direct subordinates or team members that a manager or supervisor is responsible for overseeing.

Delegation

The process of assigning authority, decision-making powers, and specific responsibilities from a manager to a subordinate.

Organizational hierarchy

A structured arrangement that ranks positions, roles, and levels of power within a company from highest to lowest.