Meaning:
Decentralisation can be viewed as an extension of delegation.
When a part of the work is entrusted to others, it is known as delegation. Decentralisation extends to the lowest level of the organisation.
A few definitions are given below:
“Decentralisation refers to tire systematic effort to delegate to the lowest levels all authority except that which can only be exercised at central points.” —Louis A. Allen
“Decentralisation means the division of a group of functions and activities into relatively autonomous units with overall authority and responsibility for their operation delegate to timd of cacti unit.’—Earl. P. Strong
“Decentralisation is simply a matter of dividing up the managerial work and assigning specific duties to the various executive skills.”
—Newman, summer and Wairen
Thus, decentralisation is concerned with the decentralisation of decision-making authority to the lower levels in managerial hierarchy.
Degree of Decentralisation:
The degree of decentralisation is determined by:
I- Nature of the authority delegated,
II- How far down in the organisation it is delegated,
III- How consistently it is delegated.
So, the degree of decentralisation is determined by the authority given. For example, manager A in a company is given the authority to buy certain material worth Rs. 1500 whereas manager B is allowed to do similar type of work to the extent of Rs. 4500.
It is clear that the degree of decentralisation is less in case of A. Similarly decisions about the matters referred, measure the degree of decentralisation depending upon the power to take decisions vested in an officer without the need of getting consent of somebody else.
Advantages of Decentralisation:
- Reduces the burden on top executives:
Decentralisation relieves the top executives of the burden of performing various functions. Centralisation of authority puts the whole responsibility on the shoulders of an executive and his immediate group. This reduces the time at the disposal of top executives who should concentrate on other important managerial functions. So, the only way to lessen their burden is to decentralise the decision-making power to the subordinates.
- Facilitates diversification:
Under decentralization, the diversification of products, activites and markets etc., is facilitated. A centralised enterprise with the concentration of authority at the top will find it difficult and complex to diversify its activities and start the additional lines of manufacture or distribution.
- To provide product and market emphasis:
A product loses its market when new products appear in the market on account of innovations or changes in the customers demand. In such cases authority is decentralised to the regional units to render instant service taking into account the price, quality, delivery, novelty, etc.
- Executive Development:
When the authority is decentralised, executives in the organisation will get the opportunity to develop their talents by taking initiative which will also make them ready for managerial positions. The growth of the company greatly depends on the talented executives.
- It promotes motivation:
To quote Louis A. Allen, “Decentralisation stimulates the formation of small cohesive groups. Since local managers are given a large degree of authority and local autonomy, they tend to weld their people into closely knit integrated groups.” This improves the morale of employees as they get involved in decision-making process.
- Better control and supervision:
Decentralisation ensures better control and supervision as the subordinates at the lowest levels will have the authority to make independent decisions. As a result they have thorough knowledge of every assignment under their control and are in a position to make amendments and take corrective action.
- Quick Decision-Making:
Decentralisation brings decision making process closer to the scene of action. This leads to quicker decision-making of lower level since decisions do not have to be referred up through the hierarchy.
Disadvantages of Decentralisation:
Decentralisation can be extremely beneficial. But it can be dangerous unless it is carefully constructed and constantly monitored for the good of the company as a whole.
Some disadvantages of decentralisation are:
- Uniform policies not Followed:
Under decentralisation, it is not possible* to follow uniform policies and standardised procedures. Each manager will work and frame policies according to his talent.
- Problem of Co-Ordination:
Decentralisation of authority creates problems of co-ordination as authority lies dispersed widely throughout the organisation.
- More Financial Burden:
Decentralisation requires the employment of trained personnel to accept authority, it involves more financial burden and a small enterprise cannot afford to appoint experts in various fields.
- Require Qualified Personnel:
Decentralisation becomes useless when there are no qualified and competent personnel.
- Conflict:
Decentralisation puts more pressure on divisional heads to realize profits at any cost. Often in meeting their new profit plans, bring conflicts among managers.