Delegation
Delegation assigns responsibility for work and appropriate decision-making authority to another person, within stated limits. Effective delegation makes the expected result, resources, authority, reporting arrangements and escalation points clear. It can develop staff and improve responsiveness, while allowing a manager to concentrate on other responsibilities. The delegating manager remains accountable for choosing suitable arrangements and exercising appropriate oversight.
Worked example
A manager delegates organisation of a training event, permits spending up to €3,000 and requires progress updates and approval for changes above the limit. The employee has room to act but knows when to escalate.
Common mistake
Assigning a task without enough authority or resources is weak delegation. Delegation also does not mean abandoning oversight or taking back every minor decision.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |