7.1.3—Delegation and accountability

Delegation gives another person authority to carry out a task or decision. The manager remains accountable for the outcome, while the delegate needs clarity, resources and support.

Effective delegation can develop people and speed decisions, but vague authority or unrealistic responsibility creates delay and blame.

A manager can delegate a supplier negotiation with a budget limit and reporting point; the manager still owns the final performance of the function.

Delegation is not dumping work without authority, and accountability cannot simply be delegated away.