Decentralisation is an optional policy. Do you agree? Explain why an organisation would choose to be decentralised?
Yes, decentralisation is an optional policy, yet it is important in the organisation.
It refers to a systematic delegation of authority at all levels of management and in all departments of the organisation to take a decision.
Decentralisation is important because of the following reasons:
(i) Develops Initiative Among Subordinates: It helps to promote self-reliance and confidence amongst the subordinates. This is because lower managerial levels have been given the freedom to take their own decisions and they learn to depend on their own judgement.
(ii) Develops Managerial Talent for the Future: Formal training along with an experience of handling independent assignments helps to create a reservoir of qualified and capable managers, who can take up more challenging positions in the upcoming ventures of the organisation.
(iii) Quick Decision-making: Under decentralisation, authority to make decisions is placed in the hands of those, who are responsible for executing the decisions. Since decisions are taken at levels nearest to the point of execution, there is no delay or distortion of information.
(iv) Relief to Top Management: It helps to reduce the amount of direct supervision over subordinates by giving them the freedom to take the decision and act on their own. This reduces the workload of top executives and they can devote their time and attention to important policy matters.
(v) Facilitates Growth: It provides greater autonomy to lower level managers and departmental heads. This encourages them to function more efficiently to prove their supremacy, and facilitate the expansion and growth of the organisation.
(vi) Better Control: It makes it possible to evaluate performance at each level and making the departments accountable for their own results. Feedback is quick and leads to better control.